INTRACRANIAL MAGNETIC-RESONANCE ANGIOGRAP HY

Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is gaining wide acceptance as a s creening modality for the intracranial vasculature. Previous reports h ave demonstrated that MRA is capable of accurately depicting the norma l vascular anatomy and anatomic variants. To date various techniques h ave been applied in the evaluation of vaso-occlusive disease, aneurysm s, arteriovenous malformations and venous sinus thrombosis. Recent tec hnical developments have significantly improved spatial resolution and vascular contrast and will further enhance its routine clinical use. The purpose of this essay is to summarize the technical approaches, cl inical role and limitations of MRA as they apply to the intracranial c irculation.