MR Angiography (Angio MRI or Magnetic Resonance Angiography – MRA) is an advanced exam that allows non-invasive assessment of the blood vessels of the human body, without the use of ionizing radiation. It is especially used to study arteries and veins in various regions, such as the brain, neck, chest, abdomen, kidneys and lower limbs.
What is a MR Angiography?
MR Angiography is a specialized MRI technique focused on the analysis of blood vessels. It provides high-definition images of arteries and veins, making it easier to diagnose stenoses, occlusions, aneurysms, vascular malformations and other abnormalities. Depending on the region under study and the clinical indication, the exam may be performed with or without contrast.
There are several types of MRA, depending on the region of the body being evaluated:
Cerebral MRA
Detailed study of intracranial vessels. Indicated in cases of stroke, aneurysms or arteriovenous malformations.
Carotid and vertebral MRA
Assessment of the neck arteries that supply the brain. Indicated in stroke prevention or evaluation of stenoses.
Thoracic and aortic MRA
Analysis of the aorta and thoracic vessels. Indicated in aneurysms, dissections and surgical planning.
Abdominal and renal MRA
Study of the renal, hepatic, mesenteric arteries or the abdominal aorta.
Lower limb MRA
Used in the assessment of peripheral arterial disease (e.g., claudication, ischemia).
Venous MRA
Assessment of the veins (less common than arterial studies). It can be used to investigate deep vein thrombosis or compressive syndromes.
What is the price of a MR Angiography?
The price of Magnetic Resonance Angiography is €360 when performed on a private basis. However, MRI exams can also be performed through several agreements, including:
- ADSE (32€), IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance Companies: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, and other insurers.
- Health Plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, and other health plans.
- Protocols: NRD has protocols with several clinics and institutions that allow you to undergo the exam at very competitive prices. In the case of MRA, the protocol price is €275.
The price varies depending on the healthcare system or insurance you use.
Learn more about MRI prices.
How is it performed?
The patient is positioned lying down in the MRI scanner, and a coil adapted to the region under study is used (for example, head, chest or legs). In many cases, intravenous contrast (gadolinium) is administered to enhance the vessels and obtain more precise images.
The MRI scanner is open at both ends.
Earplugs are provided to reduce perception of the equipment noise.
During the exam, it is necessary to remain still. Short breath-holds may be requested, depending on the area examined. The duration varies according to the region, generally ranging between 30 and 45 minutes.
What does it detect?
MR Angiography allows the detection of:
- Stenoses (narrowing) or occlusions of arteries;
- Aneurysms and vascular dilatations;
- Arteriovenous malformations;
- Arterial dissections;
- Venous or arterial thrombi;
- Vascular complications in tumors;
- Among others.
When is it indicated?
MR Angiography is indicated for:
- Assessment of strokes (cerebrovascular accidents – CVA);
- Study of cerebral or thoracic aneurysms;
- Peripheral arterial disease (lower limbs);
- Aortic disease (e.g., dissection or aneurysm);
- Congenital or acquired vascular malformations;
- Study of renal, hepatic or portal veins;
- Pre-operative assessment or vascular surgical planning;
- Among others.
Preparation and guidelines for MR Angiography
Before undergoing MRI at NRD, please consider the following factors:
| Topic | Guideline |
| Exam Prescription (paper form) | You must bring the Exam Prescription in paper format. |
| Fasting | MRA is almost always performed with intravenous contrast, so fasting for 3 hours is generally required (we will confirm this when scheduling). |
| Early arrival | Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time. |
| Medication | You may take essential medication with a minimal amount of water. |
| Metal objects | Remove all metal objects (e.g., earrings, bracelets, necklaces, piercings, hairpins, removable prostheses, etc.). |
| Pregnancy | Inform the NRD healthcare professional if you are pregnant. |
| Previous exams / Tests / Info | Bring previous exams, relevant clinical information and recent laboratory tests. |
| Glucose monitoring implant | Do not place the implant, as it will need to be removed before the exam. |
| Makeup | Do not wear makeup, as some products may interfere with the exam. |
| Valve and/or orthopedic prostheses | If you have valve and/or orthopedic prostheses, bring documentation describing their material and composition. |
| Hearing aids | Inform the clinic if you use a hearing aid, as it must be removed before the exam. |
| Dental prostheses | Inform the clinic if you use a dental prosthesis, as it must be removed before the exam. Also inform them if you have dental implants. |
| Orthodontic appliances | Inform the clinic if you have orthodontic appliances. A test may be required to assess compatibility with MRI. |
| Pacemakers and implantable devices | NRD does not perform MRI on people with pacemakers or implantable devices (e.g., cochlear implants). The exam should be performed in a hospital setting. |
Throughout the MRI exam, you will be continuously monitored by the NRD imaging technician responsible for your exam. An alert system will also be available for you to activate if needed.
You must remain still during the exam to ensure image quality.
The entire NRD team will be available to answer any questions you may have.
After the exam, you may resume your normal routine.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the MRI results within 7 days after the exam, by email or in paper format at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take home a CD with the images.
Where to do it?
MRI can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070 – 060 Lisbon (Next to Praça de Espanha)