Our team will inform you of the exact preparation that you will need for the scan. It is very important to follow the preparation instructions, failure to do so could result in the scan being postponed or cancelled. 

In general, the following will apply:

• Fasting 4 hours before your appointment (fasting means NO food, but you may drink water only during this time).
• For patients with diabetes, have a light breakfast with your medication, and fasting for 4 hours before your appointment.

Please note: It is important to tell our team if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

A nuclear medicine technologist (a healthcare professional trained to handle isotopes) will administer an individually tailored injection of 18F-PSMA into a vein (usually in your arm). 

Following this injection, you will be asked to rest quietly in your own uptake room for 90 minutes - feel free to bring a book or tablet to occupy yourself as relatives and friends will be asked to wait in the waiting area. 

The scan time takes 20-30 minutes, please let the technologist know if you are not comfortable before the scanning starts to ensure we make you comfortable.

From arrival to departure, you will be with us approximately 3.5 hours.

The technologist will tell you if there are any special instructions you need to follow after the scan. In most cases you will be able to leave straight away, then eat and drink as normal. 

The isotope loses its radioactivity over time and will pass naturally out of your body. To assist passing the isotope out of your body, we encourage you to drink plenty of liquid and empty your bladder regularly. 

The amount of radiation in your body after the scan will be very small, if you have any concerns about exposure to radiation, please discuss this with one of our team.

The PET CT images will be electronically sent following the scan. A written report will be sent to the doctor who has requested your scan (within 7 days), please inform us if you would like a copy of the report to be sent to your GP. Your  doctor will be able to discuss the results with you at your next appointment.