What does milliampere (mA) measure?

Milliampere (mA) measures electric current, specifically in the context of how much electric charge is flowing through a circuit per second. In medical imaging, especially in fluoroscopy, understanding electric current is crucial as it relates to the amount of x-ray tube current being applied during the imaging process. This measurement directly influences the quantity of x-rays produced; higher mA results in greater x-ray output, which can enhance image quality but also increase patient exposure to radiation.

Moreover, while voltage and resistance are important parameters in electrical circuits, they pertain to different concepts and metrics. Voltage measures the electric potential difference, while resistance quantifies how strongly a material opposes the flow of electric current. Radiation dose, on the other hand, relates to the amount of radiation energy absorbed by a patient, which is a separate measurement that is not captured by mA. Understanding milliampere as a measure of electric current is essential for professionals working in radiology, as it helps manage both the quality of imaging and the safety of patients.