Difference between brain mri and mra?

[xl_dean_lx]

What is the difference between a brain mri and mra? Is the difference based on whether or not contrast is used? Ive had a brain mri with contrast to rule out tumors and any other serious issues that may be related to my constant head pressure/aches, floaters, and other symptoms.

The doctor wants to schedule a mra with and without contrast. If both use the same mri tunnel for the procedure, how do they vary?

I understand that mra's focus more on veins and arteries to help detect blockages and anurysems (sp), but if I had something like this could the mri with contrast detected it too?

[xl_dean_lx]

Ive "googled" the two myself. Im asking what the difference is? How are they using the same machine, same contrast, and getting different results?

[selmaS]

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.

MR imaging uses a powerful magnetic field, radio frequency pulses and a computer to produce detailed pictures of organs, soft tissues, bone and virtually all other internal body structures. The images can then be examined on a computer monitor, printed or copied to CD. MRI does not use ionizing radiation (x-rays).


MR angiography  (MRA) is used to examine blood vessels in key areas of the body, including the:

brain
kidneys
pelvis
legs
lungs
heart
neck
abdomen

Hope this helps...

"selma"

[xl_dean_lx]

Anyone