Portal Vein Magnetic Resonance Angiography — With and Without Intravenous Contrast
Uses magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate the portal vein and blood flow, sometimes comparing images before and after IV contrast.
["This imaging test helps assess the portal vein for narrowing, blockage, or abnormal blood flow."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36414-1
- Short code
- MRA Portal v WO+W contr IV
- Synonyms
- MRA Portal v WO+W contr IV
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mr-angio
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
Portal vein magnetic resonance angiography, or MR angiography, creates detailed images of the major vein carrying blood from the intestines and spleen to the liver. The examination may include images before and after intravenous contrast is given.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be ordered to investigate suspected portal vein narrowing or blockage, unexplained portal hypertension, or blood-flow problems related to liver disease. It can also help evaluate the portal vein before certain medical procedures.
How is the test performed?
You lie on a moving table inside an MRI scanner, which uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create images. If contrast is used, it is injected through an intravenous line, and the scanner takes additional images as the contrast moves through the bloodstream.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the imaging center's instructions, because fasting or other restrictions may depend on the reason for the examination. Tell the care team if you have had an allergic reaction to MRI contrast, have kidney disease, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have metal implants in your body.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate portal vein narrowing, a blood clot, reduced or altered blood flow, or pressure-related changes affecting the liver and digestive organs. Results are interpreted together with symptoms, liver function tests, and other imaging studies. A normal examination generally does not explain persistent symptoms by itself and may need further evaluation if clinical concerns remain.
Short name
Portal vein MR angiography
Frequently asked questions
Is this a blood test?
Why are images taken with and without contrast?
What should I do if I have had a reaction to contrast?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy