During radiographic imaging, what does an increase in milliamperage (mA) achieve?

An increase in milliamperage (mA) during radiographic imaging primarily achieves a rise in the amount of x-ray photons produced per unit of time. This increase allows for a more significant quantity of radiation to be emitted, which can indeed shorten the necessary exposure time required to obtain a properly exposed image. When mA is increased, the x-ray tube produces more radiation. To maintain the same exposure level (the desired amount of radiation reaching the image receptor), the exposure time can be decreased because the increased number of photons allows for a proper exposure in a shorter duration.

While increasing mA can influence other factors related to image quality, such as density, it is specifically the capability to reduce exposure time that directly results from an increase in mA. This is particularly useful in situations where minimizing patient motion is critical, as shorter exposure times can help reduce blurring caused by movement.