Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) delivers an accurate vascular roadmap for percutaneous and surgical procedures including revascularization therapies, and is useful for ongoing followup. MRA can assess anatomical location, morphology and extent of disease. Combining the superior tissue contrast inherent in MRI with improved vessel clarity, MRA displays results in rotatable 3D images.

MRA is also useful to differentiate atherosclerotic PAD from other causes such as neurogenic claudication and entrapment. MRA is accurate for detecting hemodynamically significant stenoses (greater than 50%). ^{(SOURCE: “Diagnosis and management of peripheral arterial disease…”)}

Clinical uses of MRA and/or Magnetic Resonance Venography (MRV) for suspected or known vascular pathologies are well-established by research, and recognized by major insurance company policies and Medicare.

See also: Aetna Policy 0520. Cigna Policy 0154.

Disease Indications for Vascular MRA/MRV

MRA/MRV is considered medically necessary (standard of care) for the diagnosis and ongoing treatment of many vascular diseases, including:

• Deep Vein Thrombosis
• Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
• Stenosis
• Occlusive Disease
• Arterial Dissection
• Arteria Peronea Magna
• Atherosclerosis, including atherosclerotic peripheral vascular disease
• Aortoiliac disease (“Inflow disease”)
• Femoropopliteal disease (“Outflow disease”)
• Tibioperoneal disease  (“Runoff disease”)
• Congenital disorders
• Coarctation
• Arteriovenous malformations

See also:

• iScan Vascular MRA diagnostic exams (.PDF)
• Pedal Vascular MRA
• Renal Vascular MRA

References:

Shah D, Brown B, Kim R, Grizzard J. “Magnetic Resonance Evaluation of Peripheral Arterial Disease” Magnetic Resonance Imaging Clinics of North America, Volume 15, Issue 4, Pages 653-679.

“Diagnosis and management of peripheral arterial disease: A national clinical guideline” Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network.

What is MRA? Society for Vascular Surgery.