I had the MRA and it seemed just like an MRI, it didn't bother me Best wishes __________________________________________________ __ "MRA Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) is an MRI study of the blood vessels. MRA provides detailed images of blood vessels without using any contrast material, although a special form of contrast is sometimes given to make the MR images more clear. The procedure is painless, and the magnetic field is not known to cause tissue damage of any kind. The patient is placed on a special table and positioned inside the opening of the MRI unit. A typical exam consists of two to six imaging sequences, each taking from 2 to 15 minutes. Depending on the type of exam being done, the total time needed can range from 10 to 60 minutes, not counting the time needed to change clothing and have an IV put in (if contrast is needed). When contrast material is needed, a substance called gadolinium is given by IV injection during one of the imaging sequences. It highlights blood vessels, making them stand out from surrounding tissues. *Discomfort and Risks There may be discomfort if you are claustrophobic. Please tell your doctor if you have trouble in small spaces. Open-sided MRI's are available in certain areas or sedatives can be prescribed. Patients also need to tell their physician if their body contains any ferromagnetic objects such as shrapnel, a pacemaker, or aneurysm clips. These patients cannot undergo MRI study. Ferromagnetic objects are attracted by the MRI's magnet With contrast: There may be some minor bleeding and there is a small risk of infection where the IV is started. There is also a risk of an allergic reaction to the contrast dye." from tellmeabouttos.com