MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography) are modern medical imaging techniques that are non-invasive and painless. They use magnetic and radio waves to produce images of the body, including organs, tissues, bones, and blood vessels. MRI and MRA help physicians diagnose various medical conditions, assess the severity, identify abnormalities, and monitor the progress of diseases. If you’re scheduled for an MRI/MRA exam but unsure of what to expect, this post will guide you through every step of the way.

Types of MRI/MRA
There are different types of MRI depending on the area to be examined and the specific purpose. Some of these types include:

• Brain MRI – This is used to examine the brain and detect abnormalities such as tumors, aneurysms, and stroke.
• Spine MRI – This is used to examine the spinal cord and the discs between the vertebrae. It helps diagnose conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and tumors.
• Abdominal MRI – This is used to examine the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, spleen, and other abdominal organs. It helps diagnose conditions such as tumors, cysts, and inflammation.
• Cardiac MRI/MRA – It helps to diagnose conditions like Coronary Heart Diseases, heart enlargement, or other disease-affected areas of the heart.

When do you need an MRI/MRA?
Your physician may order an MRI or MRA if you’re experiencing unexplained symptoms or if you have a medical condition that requires proper diagnosis and monitoring. Some of the common reasons why an MRI/MRA may be required include:

• Headaches and seizures
• Joint pain and injuries
• Abnormalities in the nervous system
• Cancer screening
• Detection of heart or brain anomalies

Preparing for an MRI/MRA
The MRI/MRA scan may take between 15 minutes to an hour depending on the area being examined. Here’s what you should do to prepare:

• Wear comfortable clothing without any metal pieces.
• You may be required to change into a hospital gown, but this will be provided for you.
• Inform your doctor if you have any metal or electronic implants, such as pacemakers, metal plates, cochlear implants, or drug patches.

What to Expect During the Exam
When you arrive at the MRI/MRA department, you’ll be asked to lie down on the examination table that will slide into a tube-shaped object that is the MRI/MRA machine. You may hear loud noises, like banging sounds, so the healthcare technician may give you earphones to minimize the noise. The technician will be monitoring your status throughout the process, so if you feel any discomfort, you can signal them to pause the test.

After the Exam
After the exam, you can resume your regular activities unless your physician has instructed otherwise. The images will be processed and interpreted by a radiologist, who will share the findings with your physician. Your physician will then explain the results to you and determine the next course of action, depending on your specific needs.