Roberta Aguirre
Insulin pumps are designed to withstand common electromagnetic interference, including some airport security systems. However, there is conflicting information about whether insulin pumps can be exposed to x-ray machines. Some sources claim that insulin pumps should not go through x-ray machines, while others claim that it is safe to do so. It's important to check the guidelines and recommendations for your specific device, as well as consult with relevant authorities, such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), before travelling with an insulin pump. Additionally, it's recommended to notify security personnel when going through airport security screening and to carry the necessary airport information cards.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can t:slim pump go through airport x-ray? | It is not recommended to send t:slim pumps through airport x-ray machines. |
| Alternative options | Wear the pump through metal detectors, request a pat down, or disconnect and request a physical inspection of the pump. |
| Risks | Worst-case scenario is that the pump stops working entirely. |
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What You'll Learn
Insulin pumps and CGMs can be worn through metal detectors
When travelling with diabetes, it is important to be aware of how your insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor (CGM) will be affected by security systems at the airport.
Manufacturers of insulin pumps and CGMs have their own guidance on which devices can go through metal detectors, X-rays, and full-body scanners. For instance, the Dexcom G7 and Dexcom ONE+ are safe to go through full-body scanners, but the G6 and Dexcom ONE are not. It is recommended to check the manufacturer's website or contact them directly for more information before travelling.
Additionally, when travelling with insulin, it is important to keep it in your carry-on luggage, as insulin can freeze in the hold. It is also recommended to use a medically approved cool bag to transport your insulin through security.
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Insulin pumps should not go through X-ray machines
Insulin pumps should not be exposed to X-ray machines at airport security. Insulin pump manufacturers, including Medtronic, Tandem Diabetes Care, and Roche, advise against exposing insulin pumps to X-ray screening and full-body scanners.
Tandem Diabetes Care insulin pumps, for example, are designed to withstand common electromagnetic interference from airport metal detectors, but the company specifically states that their pumps should not go through baggage X-ray machines or be exposed to X-ray screening. Similarly, Medtronic insulin pumps can be worn through metal detectors, but the company recommends against sending them through X-ray machines or full-body scanners.
The potential damage caused by X-ray screening to insulin pumps is a concern. Regulations allow passengers with insulin pumps to request alternative security screening processes, such as a physical inspection or a pat-down. It is recommended to notify security personnel in advance that you are wearing an insulin pump and to request an alternative screening method if necessary.
It is important to note that some sources suggest that certain insulin pumps, such as the OmniPod, are certified to go through airport X-ray machines. However, it is always advisable to follow the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of your insulin pump to ensure the safety and functionality of your device.
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Insulin pumps should be disconnected during flights
Insulin pumps should not be exposed to X-ray screening, including airport baggage X-ray machines. This means that insulin pumps should not go through full-body scanners, which are also a form of X-ray. If you are wearing an insulin pump, you should notify the security agent and request an alternative means of screening, such as a pat-down or a physical inspection of your pump.
Tandem Diabetes Care insulin pumps, for example, are designed to withstand common electromagnetic interference from airport metal detectors but should not be sent through X-ray machines. Similarly, Medtronic insulin pumps can be worn through metal detectors and wanded, but they should not go through X-ray machines or full-body scanners.
It is recommended that you carry the Airport Information Card for your insulin pump system when travelling. You should also check with the relevant authorities before travelling, as travel rules are subject to change. For example, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States can provide specific information on travelling with an insulin pump.
Additionally, it is important to consider the effects of changes in air pressure during flights. Research has shown that changes in air pressure can cause bubbles to form in the insulin, leading to unintended insulin delivery. This can result in hypoglycaemia during or after the flight, especially in those who are very sensitive to insulin, such as children. To avoid this, it is recommended to disconnect the insulin pump just before takeoff and reconnect after 20 minutes, once cruising altitude is reached. During ascent, the formation of bubbles can cause a small amount of insulin to be delivered, while on descent, a small reduction in insulin delivery can occur, potentially causing an increase in blood sugar. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor your glucose levels frequently and be prepared to respond if needed.
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Insulin pumps should be removed before going through a full-body scanner
Insulin pumps are small, portable devices that deliver insulin to the body. They are commonly used by people with diabetes to manage their blood sugar levels. When travelling with an insulin pump, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure the safe passage of the device through airport security.
While insulin pumps can be worn through metal detectors and can be wanded, manufacturers such as Medtronic advise against exposing them to X-ray machines and full-body scanners. This is because the radiation from X-ray machines and full-body scanners may potentially damage the device and affect its functionality.
Medtronic has conducted official testing on the effects of full-body scanners at airports and found that some scanners may include X-ray. Therefore, they recommend that individuals remove their insulin pumps and Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) before going through a full-body scanner. Other manufacturers, such as Tandem Diabetes Care, also recommend against exposing their insulin pumps to X-ray screening and full-body scanners.
If you are travelling with an insulin pump, it is important to notify security personnel and request an alternative screening process if necessary. Regulations allow passengers with medical devices to request alternative security screening. This may include a pat-down or physical inspection of the device. It is also recommended to carry a Medical Device Awareness Card, which is sponsored by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and Airport Operators Association (AOA). This card can help inform security personnel about your medical device and ensure a smoother screening process.
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Insulin pumps should be disconnected before take-off and landing
It is recommended that insulin pumps should be disconnected before take-off and landing to avoid accidental insulin doses. During take-off, the drop in cabin pressure can cause bubbles to form in the cartridge, resulting in a small amount of insulin being delivered. This can lead to an over-delivery of insulin, which could cause low blood sugar, especially in those who are very sensitive to insulin, such as children. Similarly, during landing, there can be a small reduction in insulin delivery, which could cause an increase in blood sugar.
To avoid these issues, it is advised to disconnect the pump just before take-off and reconnect after 20 minutes, once cruising altitude is reached. Some sources suggest eating a small snack, like a banana, during this time to manage blood sugar levels. It is also important to monitor your blood sugar levels before, during, and after disconnection to ensure they remain stable.
Additionally, when going through airport security, it is recommended to avoid taking your insulin pump through a full-body scanner or x-ray machine as the radiation can harm the device. Instead, you can request an alternative screening process, such as a hand check or a pat-down. It is important to notify airport security that you have diabetes, are wearing an insulin pump, and are carrying insulin supplies with you.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure the safe and effective use of your insulin pump while travelling by air.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, insulin pumps are designed to withstand common electromagnetic interference from airport metal detectors. However, you should notify security personnel that you are wearing an insulin pump as it will be detected during the screening process.
It is recommended that insulin pumps are not exposed to X-ray screening. If you choose to go through an airport body scanner, you must remove your insulin pump and CGM (sensor and transmitter). You may request an alternative screening process.
The safest way to travel with an insulin pump is to disconnect it at the infusion set site and request a physical inspection of the pump. You can also turn on "Airplane mode" on your smartphone to maintain an active Bluetooth connection.
