Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA, MRI angiography, MR angiography) of cerebral vessels - accurate, modern and a safe method of research, a diagnostic method that is widely used in neurology. Diagnostic the procedure is used to assess the structure of cerebral veins and arteries, to identify acute and chronic diseases, associated with blood flow disorders.
At the K+31 clinic, the procedure is performed on the SIGNA™ Architect AIR™ Edition premium-class system. high speed and informational content, the best prices for MRI angiography of cerebral vessels in Moscow - the reasons why patients choose us. Call our clinic at the number at the top of the page for more information. advice and professional advice. You can also request a call back - leave your name and phone number website and we will call you back as soon as possible.
What MRI angiography shows
The method of magnetic resonance imaging is based on layer-by-layer scanning of the body using electromagnetic waves. At their interaction with hydrogen atoms in the tissues of the body, a resonance appears, which is captured by the device, and a computer program converts it into a three-dimensional image. This is a non-invasive way to study the vascular bed using a tomograph, which in most cases does not require the introduction of contrast agents.
Data on the size, location and relationships of blood vessels provide valuable information for the neurologist. MRI angiography allows you to diagnose the following conditions:
- Arteriovenous malformations.
- Area of pathological narrowing (stenosis) or expansion (aneurysm) of blood vessels.
- Thrombosis and embolism.
- Angiomas and other types of brain tumors.
- Vasculitis of cerebral vessels.
- Congenital anomalies in the development of the vasculature in the brain.
The results of magnetic resonance angiography are used in the diagnosis of diseases of the central nervous system on early stage, cerebrovascular accidents (transient ischemic attacks, strokes), vascular dementia, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, dysfunction of the sense organs, epilepsy, when other methods were not informative. The technique is also used in a comprehensive examination of patients with complicated forms. hypertension, atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus, as well as to monitor the state in dynamics and some other purposes.
When you need to do MRA of cerebral vessels
A referral for diagnostics is given by a neurologist after a consultation, physical examination and standard research (ultrasound, CT of the brain). MRA is used as a clarifying method, it is carried out in the presence of the following indications in patients:
- Chronic and frequent headaches of unknown origin.
- Recurrent bouts of dizziness, lightheadedness, tinnitus.
- Faints.
- Disorders of fine motor skills and coordination of movements.
- Hearing and vision impairment.
- Decrease in memory, speed of thinking and ability to concentrate.
- A previous head injury.
MR angiography of cerebral vessels is a study that shows the most detailed information about anatomical features of blood flow. Such diagnostics are often used in neurosurgery in preparation for surgical intervention and to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment in the postoperative period.
Contraindications for testing
Although magnetic resonance imaging is recognized as one of the safest methods (with a minimum of contraindications), which can be used not only in adults, but also in children of different ages, it has a number of limitations. TO Absolute contraindications, in which the diagnosis is strictly prohibited, include:
- The presence of a pacemaker, cardioverter-defibrillator.
- Metal prosthetic heart valves
- Steel fixing structures in the bones of the skull, spine and other parts of the body.
- Prosthetic joints.
- The presence of metal fragments left in the tissues after injuries.
- Inner ear implant
- Hemostatic clips on cerebral vessels.
Patients can have MRI angiography with braces and dental implants without getting a referral from a dentist. Such structures do not interfere with scanning and do not provoke negative consequences of the procedure.
In a special group, relative contraindications to MRI angiography are distinguished: the first trimester of pregnancy, severe claustrophobia, tattoos on the body, diseases and conditions that make it difficult to remain still on throughout the procedure. If available, the study is performed only if it is impossible to assess the blood flow to the brain by other ways.