What effect does increasing the field of view (FOV) have on patient heating?

Increasing the field of view (FOV) during an MRI scan can indeed reduce patient heating. When the FOV is enlarged, the amount of tissue being exposed to the radiofrequency (RF) energy per unit area decreases. This is because the RF energy is distributed more broadly across a larger area, thus reducing the concentration of energy absorbed by any specific tissue.

As a result, the specific absorption rate (SAR), which quantifies the amount of RF energy absorbed by the body, tends to decrease with a larger FOV. Lower SAR values indicate reduced heating effects on the patient, which is a crucial factor in ensuring safety and minimizing discomfort during the procedure. In MRI practice, controlling patient heating is vital, particularly when investigating individuals with certain health conditions or implantable devices that may be more sensitive to thermal changes.

In contrast, narrower FOVs can lead to higher SAR values, resulting in increased potential for heating, which can pose safety risks. Thus, maximizing the FOV is a practical approach to managing and mitigating the risks associated with patient heating during MRI scans.