MRI Scan - Angio Renal Test

Magnetic Resonance Angiogram is one type of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) where a magnetic field and radio wave energy is used to create images of blood vessels inside the patient's body. An MRA of the kidneys is performed to look at the blood vessels leading to the kidneys. When it comes to MRA Renals, the following are the indications to perform the test.

• Renal vascular malformation or arteriovenous malformations and fistula • To evaluate the renal artery stenosis (narrowing of vessels) and blockage • Hypertensive chronic kidney disease • Atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis • Fibromuscular dysplasia • Renal artery aneurysm and dissection

It's important to follow the doctor's recommendations before going to the MRI angio renal test. The patient is asked not to consume any tobacco products or eat and drink (whether alcohol or caffeinated drinks) for 2 hours prior to the test. No iron supplements on the day of the test

Complete information of patient's medical history including allergies, pregnancy, operations and use of a pacemaker, artificial limbs, metal clips on the brain, metal heart valves, metal pins or parts in the body, any other implanted or prosthetic devices. If the patient has claustrophobic symptoms, the doctor may need to give medicine to relax. All the metal objects ( hairpin, hearing aids, dentures, watches, magnetic cards, jewelry etc) of the patient have to be removed. The patient has to wear a medical gown while removing own clothes.

The patient possibly has material (dye) put into the arm through a tube (IV). Contrast material makes it possible for a doctor to see only particular organs, blood vessels, and tumors. This dye usage must be done after doctor's suggestions as it may cause nausea and warm sensation as well as a headache.

This test provides a roadmap of blood vessels to the doctor which can be essential for treatment or planning of a treatment. For example, prior to operating a tumor, it's necessary to view the vessels of the kidneys. In many cases, MRA provides detailed knowledge that a doctor cannot determine with an ultrasound, normal X-ray or CT scan.

The test can take 40-60 minutes but can also take as long as 2 hours. • The patient has to lie back on a table under the MRI scanner with head, chest, and arms held in straps to make him still. • The table slides into the magnet containing space where a device (coil) may be placed around the area for scanning. • Within the scanner, sounds of a fan move, thumping, tapping or snapping can be heard.