How does the use of a rectangular FOV affect the imaging process?

The use of a rectangular field of view (FOV) can indeed lead to a reduction in imaging time while potentially affecting the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). This is primarily because a rectangular FOV allows for a more efficient use of the available data and can help to minimize the number of phase encodings needed for the imaging process. Consequently, a smaller number of phase encodings reduces the time taken to acquire the image. However, when using a rectangular FOV, it is essential to consider that the SNR may be affected. This happens because the FOV does not cover a square area, which can lead to variations in SNR depending on the specific imaging parameters and the region of interest.

In contrast, enhancing spatial resolution typically involves increasing the pixel or voxel size, which can be more effectively managed with a square FOV, while the complexity of slice selection is more associated with other imaging parameters rather than simply the FOV shape. Therefore, acknowledging that the reduction in imaging time while affecting SNR is a key aspect of using a rectangular FOV culminates in its practical application in MRI technology.