Which statement is true regarding the relationship between slice reduction and patient heating?

The statement that slice reduction effectively decreases heating is correct because reducing the number of slices being imaged directly contributes to a decrease in the total specific absorption rate (SAR). SAR measures the rate at which energy is absorbed by the patient’s body when exposed to the RF (radiofrequency) energy that is used during MRI scans. By reducing the number of slices, the scanner minimizes the amount of RF energy delivered to the patient, which in turn decreases the risk of heating and potential temperature rises in tissue. This is particularly important in maintaining patient safety and comfort during MRI procedures.

The other statements don't accurately convey the relationship between slice selection and patient heating. For instance, while increasing patient comfort is a potential side effect of slice reduction due to shorter scan times, it does not directly relate to the mechanism of heating. Saying that it has no significant impact overlooks the fact that SAR is a crucial aspect of patient safety, and slice reduction has a notable effect on energy absorption. Lastly, implying that it only matters at high field strengths ignores the fact that all MR systems can generate significant heating depending on the RF energy applied, regardless of field strength.