What is the primary advantage of using MRA over conventional angiography?

The primary advantage of using Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) over conventional angiography is the lower risk of complications. MRA is a non-invasive imaging technique that does not require the use of ionizing radiation or the introduction of a catheter into the blood vessels, which is often the case in conventional angiography. This significantly reduces the likelihood of complications such as infection, bleeding, or vessel damage that can arise from catheterization.

Additionally, MRA typically uses a contrast agent that is less likely to cause allergic reactions compared to iodinated contrast agents used in conventional angiography. This further enhances the safety profile of MRA.

While MRA may have advantages in certain contexts such as noninvasive assessment and patients who are at higher risk for complications from invasive procedures, it also has limitations, like reduced spatial resolution compared to conventional angiography, which is often more definitive for certain vascular abnormalities.