What does the term "mAs" stand for in radiography?

The term "mAs" in radiography stands for "milliampere seconds," which is a measure of the total electrical charge (current) that is used during a radiographic exposure. It is crucial in determining the quantity of radiation that reaches the film or detector, affecting the resulting image's density (darkness) and overall quality. The milliampere (mA) refers to the current flowing through the x-ray tube, and the seconds (s) denote the duration of the exposure. Together, they quantify the intensity and length of the exposure, helping radiologic technologists balance image quality with patient safety by using the appropriate amount of radiation.

This measurement is essential for obtaining clear images while minimizing radiation doses to patients. Understanding mAs allows technologists to optimize imaging parameters to produce diagnostic-quality images without unnecessary exposure.