MR Angiography, Left Upper Extremity Vessels — With and Without Intravenous Contrast
An MRI-based examination of blood vessels in the left arm, using images before and after IV contrast to assess blood flow and vessel structure.
["This test uses MRI to evaluate the blood vessels in the left arm and may include an intravenous contrast agent."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36851-4
- Short code
- MRA UE vv-L WO+W contr IV
- Synonyms
- MRA UE vv-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 pictures of blood vessels using magnetic fields and radio waves. For this examination, the vessels of the left upper extremity are evaluated, with images obtained both before and after intravenous contrast may be given.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be used to investigate reduced blood flow, swelling, pain, or a suspected clot in the arm. It can also help evaluate abnormalities affecting the arteries or veins, such as narrowing, obstruction, or an unusual vessel formation.
How is the test performed?
You usually lie still inside an MRI scanner while images of the left arm are taken. If contrast is used, it is given through a vein in the arm, and additional images are obtained afterward. The examination may take 30 to 60 minutes.
How do I prepare for the test?
Tell the imaging team if you have had a serious reaction to contrast, kidney disease, pregnancy, or an implanted medical device. Remove loose metal objects and follow any fasting or medication instructions provided by your care team.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate narrowing or blockage of a blood vessel, a blood clot, an aneurysm, or an abnormal connection between vessels. The significance depends on the symptoms, the vessels examined, and the degree of any changes seen. A radiologist interprets the images and sends the report to your ordering clinician.
Short name
Left Upper Extremity MRA
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a routine arm MRI?
Why might images be taken before and after contrast?
Will I need a blood test afterward?
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