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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between MRI and MRA?

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MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography) are both noninvasive diagnostic imaging tools used to visualize internal body structures, such as organs, tissues, and bones. However, they have different focuses and purposes:

  • MRI: Creates detailed images of organs and tissues within the body. It can help diagnose tumors, aneurysms, strokes, and multiple sclerosis, among other conditions.
  • MRA: Focuses more on blood vessels than the surrounding tissue. It is a type of MRI that provides images of blood vessels and blood flow, helping doctors diagnose conditions such as atherosclerosis or blood clots.

Both MRI and MRA are performed using the same machine and are generally painless. The primary difference between the two is their application and the specific structures they image. While MRI generates images of organs, bones, and tissues, MRA focuses on blood vessels. In some cases, an MRA may be done in conjunction with an MRI to provide a more comprehensive view of the body's internal structures.

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  • What is the Difference Between MRI and MRA?
  • Comparative Table: MRI vs MRA

    • Comparative Table: MRI vs MRA

    Here is a table comparing the differences between MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography):

    Feature MRI MRA
    Focus Generates detailed images of organs, bones, and tissues Focuses on blood vessels
    Purpose Diagnose tumors, aneurysms, strokes, multiple sclerosis, etc. Examine arteries in the brain, neck, chest, and abdomen
    Procedure Non-invasive and painless Non-invasive and painless
    Radiation Exposure None None
    Preparation Patients may need to remove jewelry and other metal objects Patients may need to remove jewelry and other metal objects
    Cost MRI costs range from $1,200 to $4,000 (with contrast) MRA costs are usually $1,000 and up, with scans that require contrast dye costing more
    Time Taken for Complete Scan Depending on the area being scanned, the scan may take from 10-15 minutes to 2 hours Depending on the area being scanned, the scan may take from 10-15 minutes to 2 hours
    Intravenous Contrast Agent Sometimes used Sometimes used

    Both MRI and MRA are non-invasive and painless diagnostic tools used to view tissues, bones, or organs inside the body. While MRI creates detailed images of organs and tissues, MRA focuses more on the blood vessels than the tissue. The choice between MRI and MRA depends on the specific diagnostic needs.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.