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Magnetic Resonance Angiography of Left Shoulder Vessels With and Without Intravenous Contrast

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

An imaging test that uses magnetic resonance imaging, with and without intravenous contrast, to examine blood vessels supplying the left shoulder.

Quick summary

["This MRA checks the left shoulder's blood vessels for narrowing, blockage, or other vascular abnormalities."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36864-7
Short code
MRA Should ves-L WO+W contr IV
Synonyms
MRA Should ves-L 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?

Magnetic resonance angiography, or MRA, creates detailed images of blood vessels. This test examines the vessels supplying the left shoulder before and after intravenous contrast is given.

Why might I need this test?

An MRA may be ordered to evaluate shoulder or arm pain, reduced blood flow, swelling, or a suspected vascular condition. It can help identify narrowing, blockage, aneurysms, or other abnormalities affecting the shoulder vessels.

How is the test performed?

You will lie on a table while a large MRI scanner images the left shoulder region. The test may include images before and after intravenous contrast is administered through a vein.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the imaging center's instructions about eating, drinking, and medications. Tell the care team if you have kidney disease, a prior contrast reaction, metal implants, or may be pregnant, because these factors may affect the test or its safety.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

MRA of left shoulder vessels

Frequently asked questions

Does this MRA use radiation?
No. MRI-based angiography does not use ionizing radiation, although the scan may be long and can feel noisy.
Why are images taken with and without contrast?
Images without contrast show the vessels and surrounding anatomy, while contrast-enhanced images can make blood flow and vessel abnormalities easier to evaluate.
Is intravenous contrast safe?
Contrast is generally well tolerated, but kidney disease or a previous serious contrast reaction may require special precautions. Notify the imaging team about any prior reactions before the examination.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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