Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Practice Test

What is NOT influenced by changing slice thickness during MRI?

1. The spatial resolution

2. The T2 contrast

3. The scan time

4. The patient comfort

The correct answer is: The T2 contrast

Changing slice thickness during MRI has several implications for the imaging process, yet T2 contrast remains unaffected by these variations. T2 contrast is primarily determined by the intrinsic properties of the tissues being imaged, specifically the relaxation times of different tissues, which dictate how they respond to the applied magnetic fields and pulse sequences. While slice thickness can influence the overall image quality, it does not alter the inherent T2 relaxation times of the tissues, thus leaving T2 contrast consistent regardless of slice thickness adjustments. Conversely, slice thickness affects spatial resolution, as thinner slices generally lead to improved spatial resolution by providing more detailed images of the anatomy. It also has implications for scan time, as thicker slices may allow for faster imaging protocols due to the reduced number of slices needed to cover the same area. Additionally, patient comfort can be impacted, as thicker slices may require fewer sequences or shorter scan times, contributing to a more comfortable experience. In summary, while several aspects of MRI are influenced by changing slice thickness, T2 contrast is not one of them, as it is solely a function of the tissue properties rather than the imaging parameters.