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How long does it take to have my PET scan taken?

However, the total time you will spend in the PET imaging department is between 2 and 3 hours:

  • PET scans use a radiotracer to evaluate organ and tissue functions, and it takes 60 to 90 minutes for the radiotracer to start working.
  • When the radiotracer is active, your doctor will ask you to lie down on your back on a padded platform which will allow you to enter into the PET scanner; depending on your type of diagnostic, you could spend somewhere between 20 to 45 minutes inside the PET scanner, during which you will have to remain still.
  • After the scan is completed, you will have to wait while the images are checked to make sure they are clear and provide detailed information.
  • The results will often go to your doctor, so it might take up to a couple of weeks to get the results.

We wanted a resource where people who are looking for better help can find it, because one of the issues that I have found is that the diagnosis takes a little bit, some people don’t know if they are diagnosed or not. This is something that it is important enough, that is why I wanted to put the information together.