Question

The mA setting for fluoroscopy is typically less than:

1. 1 mA
2. 10 mA
3. 2 mA
4. 5 mA

Answer 1

In fluoroscopy, the mA setting is typically less than 5 mA to balance image quality against radiation exposure, adhering to the ALARA principle for minimizing patient dose while achieving diagnostic benefits. Option 4 is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

The mA setting for fluoroscopy is typically less than 5 mA. In fact, during fluoroscopic procedures, the milliampere (mA) levels are usually kept below 5 mA to minimize patient dose while still allowing the radiologist to visualize the necessary body structures.

It is a balance between ensuring adequate image quality for diagnosis or guidance and minimizing the radiation exposure to the patient.

In medical imaging, particularly with procedures involving ionizing radiation like fluoroscopy, there is always a consideration of risk versus benefit.

Diagnostic doses are generally kept as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA principle) to mitigate the risks, such as radiation-induced damage, while obtaining the medical benefits of accurate diagnosis or image guidance during interventional procedures.