Chest MR Angiography (MRA) - Benefits and Risks

MRI is a noninvasive imaging technique that does not involve exposure to ionizing radiation.
Detailed images of blood vessels and blood flow are obtained without having to insert a catheter into the blood vessels, so that there is no risk of damaging a major blood vessel.
The MR angiography procedure itself may be shorter than a traditional catheter angiogram and requires no recovery period.
MR angiography is less costly than catheter angiography.
Even without using contrast material, MR angiography can provide high-quality images of many blood vessels, making it very useful for patients prone to allergic reactions or with reduced kidney function.
The contrast material used in MRI exams is less likely to produce an allergic reaction than the iodine-based contrast materials used for conventional x-rays and CT examining.

The MRA examination poses almost no risk to the average patient when appropriate safety guidelines are followed.
Although the strong magnetic field is not harmful in itself, implanted medical devices that contain metal may malfunction or cause problems during an MRI exam.
There is a very slight risk of an allergic reaction if contrast material is injected. Such reactions usually are mild and easily controlled by medication. If you experience allergic symptoms, a radiologist or other physician will be available for immediate assistance.
Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis is currently a recognized, but rare, complication of MRI believed to be caused by the injection of high doses of gadolinium contrast material in patients with very poor kidney function.