Local Magnetization Spoiling Using a Gradient Insert for Reducing the Field of View in Magnetic Resonance Imaging

The present invention provides a method and device for eliminating alias artifacts encountered in MRI when the field of view is made smaller than the subject being imaged. Significant advantages accrue from reducing the field of view to a smaller region of interest. These include reduced imaging time, increased spatial and temporal resolution, and less susceptibility to motion artifacts. The device operates by dephasing the magnetic resonance signal in regions away from the region of interest by means of a gradient insert.