Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA), Shoulder Vessels — With or Without Intravenous Contrast
An imaging test that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to examine blood vessels in the shoulder, sometimes with IV contrast.
["Shoulder MRA helps evaluate the blood vessels supplying or draining the shoulder for narrowing, blockage, or other abnormalities."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36865-4
- Short code
- MRA Should ves-R WO+W contr IV
- Synonyms
- MRA Should ves-R WO+W contr IV
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 20
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mr-angio
- CPT
- 85651
- 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?
Shoulder MRA is a form of magnetic resonance imaging that produces detailed pictures of the vessels in and around the shoulder. Images may be obtained before and after an intravenous contrast medicine is given.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be ordered to investigate reduced blood flow, swelling, pain, numbness, coldness, or unexplained changes in the shoulder. It can also help evaluate blood vessels before certain procedures or monitor a known vascular condition.
How is the test performed?
You lie on a table inside an MRI scanner while images are taken. If contrast is used, it is given through a vein in your arm; the scan may include both noncontrast and post-contrast images. The test does not use ionizing radiation.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging center and tell the technologist about metal implants, claustrophobia, pregnancy, kidney disease, or any prior reaction to MRI contrast. You may need to avoid eating or drinking for a short period if IV contrast will be used.
Reference range
Adult males: 0-15 mm/hr; Females: 0-20 mm/hrN/A
No special preparation required. CRP may be affected by acute illness.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate narrowing or blockage of an artery, abnormal blood flow, an aneurysm, or a blood clot affecting a vein. Results are interpreted together with your symptoms, physical examination, and other imaging or laboratory tests. A radiologist will explain which vessels are affected and whether follow-up is needed.
Short name
Shoulder MRA
Frequently asked questions
Is shoulder MRA the same as a routine shoulder MRI?
Is intravenous contrast always required?
Does the test use radiation?
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