American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Practice Exam

Increasing the milliampere-seconds (mAs) has a direct effect on the quantity of x-ray photons produced during an imaging procedure. When the mAs is increased, it means that either the current (mA) is increased, the time (seconds) is increased, or both. This increase results in a greater number of x-ray photons generated, which leads to higher x-ray exposure to the image receptor.

This principle is fundamental in radiography because mAs is the primary parameter that controls the amount of radiation reaching the patient and the image receptor. Higher mAs not only improves the exposure but also can enhance image quality due to reduced quantum mottle, which allows for clearer imaging of anatomical structures.

Understanding the relationship between mAs and exposure is critical for radiologic technologists to ensure optimal imaging while minimizing patient exposure to radiation. Proper adjustment of mAs ensures that enough x-ray photons are available to create a diagnostic image without unnecessary radiation exposure.