What effect does an increased milliamperage have on the resultant x-ray image?

An increase in milliamperage (mA) leads to a higher quantity of x-ray photons being generated during the exposure. This increase in photon production results in a greater radiation dose delivered to the patient, as more energy is being used to create the x-rays.

When mA is elevated, the overall density of the x-ray image may also appear darker due to the increased number of photons striking the image receptor, but the key factor to remember is that this increase directly correlates with the dose of radiation that the patient receives. Therefore, understanding that higher mA results in amplified radiation exposure to the patient is essential in radiologic practice, highlighting the importance of balancing image quality and patient safety.