Magnetic resonance angiography: the nuts and bolts

Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) has matured into an extremely reliable and valuable diagnostic vascular tool. We are now able to acquire clinically diagnostic angiograms in all the major vascular territories by using MRA, thereby replacing invasive angiography. This paradigm shift has enormous clinical and financial ramifications, as MRA is safer, cheaper, and far more convenient for our patients than invasive angiography. Future magnetic resonance imaging research developments that are on the verge of being incorporated into clinical practice include real-time magnetic resonance fluoroscopy and endovascular therapeutic ability. It should therefore be incumbent upon the vascular and interventional community to embrace this powerful technology by collaborating and integrating with those physicians who possess the skills to perform high-quality magnetic resonance imaging. This article provides basic key fundamental concepts and protocol guidelines for state-of-the art MRA performance and elucidates future directions of this technology as it pertains to the interventional and vascular radiologist.