How long does a PET scan take?

At the centre, staff check your details and blood glucose when needed, place an intravenous line, and give the FDG radiotracer. You then rest quietly while it travels through the body. The scan itself requires you to lie still while the PET-CT scanner makes images. The exact schedule varies with the body area, the tracer, and the reason for testing.

The imaging table may move through the scanner more than once. Staying still helps reduce blurred images. Staff can explain the expected timing on the day, including whether extra images are needed.

Follow the centre's fasting and medication instructions exactly. Wear comfortable clothing, avoid strenuous activity beforehand if instructed, and bring a medicine list and referral details. Tell staff if you have diabetes, may be pregnant, are breastfeeding, or find enclosed spaces difficult. Arrange enough time afterward for the appointment to finish without rushing.

The [PET-CT Scan](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/pet-ct-scan/) and [FDG Radiotracer](/materials/fdg-radiotracer/) pages explain the process in more detail.

Tell staff immediately if you feel faint, develop swelling or pain around the injection site, or become distressed while waiting or scanning. After leaving, seek urgent help for severe breathing difficulty, facial swelling, or collapse. A mild bruise can occur at the line site, but worsening redness or pain should be reported.

How long should I expect to be at the centre? Do I need to fast, change medicines, or alter diabetes treatment? Can I take someone with me? When and how will the report be shared?