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Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) and Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) are considered the most thorough and advanced methods of vascular imaging, successfully replacing invasive and riskier procedures like catheter angiography. MRA and CTA enable radiologists to achieve more reliable and consistent diagnoses of vascular diseases.
MRA is a special type of magnetic resonance imaging test designed to evaluate arteries, veins and the flow of blood within them. It utilizes MRI technology to detect, diagnose and aid in the treatment of heart disorders, strokes and blood vessel diseases. It is an excellent diagnostic tool for evaluating the arteries serving the brain, neck, abdomen, kidney, pelvis and legs for stenosis (narrowing), plaque build-up, blockage, weakening, and ballooning before they cause a more serious medical condition. By conducting an MRA, surgical procedures may be avoided. “MRA can catch problems before they have a chance to result in a heart attack, stroke or other serious condition,” says RAO interventional radiologist Dr. Rolando Prieto. “When a problem is found, MRA is also useful in helping us deliver treatment directly to the affected area without the invasiveness, risks or recovery times associated with surgery.”
No x-ray or radiation of any kind is used during an MRA exam, making it a safe choice for patients requiring repeated or follow-up testing. MRA is performed without the need for catheters, so there is no risk of damaging an artery. Contrast medium may be needed in certain cases. “MRA is an exceptionally safe and pain-free diagnostic and treatment tool,” says RAO interventional radiologist Dr. Kareem Bohsali. “It is useful in not only discovering vascular disease, but also planning treatment and providing follow-up detail of a treatment’s efficacy.”
RAO offers MRA at three locations: Medical Imaging Center, Medical Imaging Center at Windsor Oaks and TimberRidge Imaging Center.
When more detailed pictures of the arteries are needed, CTA is the diagnostic tool of choice. What makes CTA a common follow-up test to MRA is its ability to capture tiny details and produce exceptionally crisp 360-degree views of arteries to help spot disease in its earliest stages and most intricate hiding places. CTA requires contrast medium to capture detailed pictures of blood vessels and tissues. Because it uses x-rays to help create computerized 3-D images, CTA involves some exposure to radiation. “When MRA shows possible disease, CTA provides the details needed to help pinpoint what, where and how extensive it is,” says RAO interventional radiologist
Dr. Caleb Rivera.
RAO offers CTA at two locations: Medical Imaging Center at Windsor Oaks and Timber Ridge Imaging Center.
For scheduling, please call RAO at 352-671-4300.
Caleb R. Rivera, MD
Medical School: Louisiana State University School of Medicine, Baton Rouge, LA
Residency: Louisiana State University Medical Center;
Diagnostic Radiology
Fellowship: Shands at the University of Florida, Gainesville, FL; Angiography and Interventional Radiology
Special Appointments: Chief, Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Ocala Regional Medical Center
Board Certification: Diagnostic Radiology, American Board of Radiology, 2000; Vascular and Interventional Radiology, 2001
Specialty: Diagnostic Radiology, Vascular and Interventional Radiology
Kareem I. Bohsali, MD
Medical School: University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
Residency: University of Florida Shands Hospital; Diagnostic Radiology
Fellowship: Indiana University Medical Center; Indianapolis, Indiana; Vascular/Interventional Radiology
Board Certification: Diplomate, Diagnostic Radiology, American College of Radiology, 2012
Rolando E. Prieto, MD
Medical School: Ponce School of Medicine, Ponce,
Puerto Rico
Residency: Louisiana State Medical Center, Shreveport, LA; Diagnostic Radiology
Fellowship: University of Florida, Gainesville, FL; Vascular and Interventional Radiology
