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Magnetic Resonance Angiography, Thoracic Spine, Without Contrast

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

A scan that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to image blood vessels in the thoracic spine without injected contrast dye.

Quick summary

["This imaging test evaluates blood vessels in the upper-middle back without the need for contrast dye."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
37512-1
Short code
MRA T-spine ves WO contr
Synonyms
MRA T-spine ves WO contr
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?

Thoracic spine magnetic resonance angiography, or MRA, creates detailed images of blood vessels near the spine in the upper-to-middle back. This version is performed without injected contrast dye.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this scan to investigate suspected narrowing, blockage, aneurysm, or abnormal blood-flow patterns involving vessels around the thoracic spine. It may also be used to evaluate vascular abnormalities associated with a mass or other spinal condition.

How is the test performed?

You lie on a table inside an MRI scanner while the machine captures images using magnetic fields and radio waves. The scan is painless and does not use ionizing radiation, although it is noisy and you must remain still.

How do I prepare for the test?

Tell the imaging team if you have a pacemaker, other implanted device, metal fragments, or a possibility of pregnancy. Remove jewelry and other metal objects, and follow the facility's instructions about medications, eating, and drinking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Thoracic Spine MRA

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine MRI of the thoracic spine?
No. A thoracic spine MRA is focused specifically on blood vessels, while a routine MRI primarily shows the spinal bones, discs, nerves, and surrounding tissues.
Why is no contrast dye used?
This version creates vascular images without injected contrast. If additional images with contrast are needed, the ordering clinician will discuss that separately.
Will I need to stay in the scanner for a long time?
The exact scan time varies by facility and protocol. The technologist will explain what to expect and may speak with you through a speaker or intercom during 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