Ruth Haines
Metal implants are common, with many people worldwide having some form of metal implant, from dental implants to hip replacements. However, travelling with metal implants can be daunting due to airport security screenings. Metal implants will likely be picked up by metal detectors, which are designed to identify a wide range of metal objects to ensure passenger safety. While this can cause concern for travellers with implants, there are ways to prepare for the security process and make it smoother. This includes notifying security staff of your implant, carrying a doctor's note, and being prepared for additional screening.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Metal implants | Metal implants include joint replacements, plates, screws, rods, hip devices, dental implants, etc. |
| Metal detectors | Metal implants will likely set off metal detectors due to their sensitivity in detecting a wide range of metal objects. |
| Screening process | If metal implants set off the alarm, secondary screening is required, which may include a wand scanner, pat-down, or full-body scan. |
| Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) | AIT, such as full-body scanners, can facilitate screening and reduce the need for pat-downs. These scanners can detect implants without causing damage. |
| Medical ID cards | Medical ID cards, such as Orthocards, were previously issued to expedite security, but they are no longer widely accepted. Carrying a doctor's note is an alternative. |
| Communication | Informing TSA officers about metal implants and being prepared for screening can help ensure a smoother and less stressful process. |
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What You'll Learn
Metal implants will likely trigger metal detectors
If you have a metal implant, it is important to be prepared for the detectors to go off when passing through airport security. This can be a daunting prospect, but it is important to remain calm. Airport security scanners are extremely sensitive and can detect even small metal objects. If the alarms go off, you will be prompted to complete a full-body scan, which will help security personnel identify the source of the alert.
In the past, medical ID cards were issued to notify security personnel of a person's metal implant. However, these cards are no longer required, and there is no official way to provide evidence of a metal implant. Nonetheless, it is a good idea to notify the security agent that you have a metal implant and to be prepared to undergo additional screening.
If your metal implant sets off the metal detector, you will likely be asked to proceed with secondary screening. This could involve the use of a wand scanner, a pat-down, or a full-body scan. If you have an implanted heart device, it is important to remind security personnel not to hold the wand over your heart, as the magnet inside may interfere with your device. You can request a pat-down screening instead if you prefer.
While the thought of going through airport security with a metal implant can be anxiety-inducing, it is important to remember that security staff has been trained to handle sensitive issues and treat passengers respectfully. By being prepared and polite, you can help ensure a quick and smooth passage through airport security.
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Full-body scanners can detect implants
If you have metal implants, airport security scanners can detect even small metal objects. Metal implants in the body, including joint replacements, plates, screws, and rods, can set off metal detectors during airport security screenings. If the alarms go off, airport security will prompt you to complete a full-body scan if one is available.
Full-body scanners use millimeter-wave technology to detect metal and non-metal objects that may be concealed under clothing, as well as their exact location on your body. However, they do not reveal your naked body or the insides of your body. Instead, airport security staff see a generic human shape that resembles a doll. This means that while full-body scanners will not damage implantable devices such as pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), they can detect their presence.
If you have a medical implant, it is recommended that you inform the TSA officer before proceeding with the screening. You can also carry documentation regarding your implant to show security, which can help them understand and visualize where the metal is in your body, making it easier for them to complete their checks without unnecessary delays or confusion. Such documentation might include a letter from your doctor or a photograph of your X-ray.
It is important to note that if you have an internal medical device such as a pacemaker, you should not be screened by a walk-through metal detector. Instead, you may be asked to proceed with a secondary screening, such as a hand-held wand or a pat-down screening.
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ID cards are no longer accepted as evidence
Metal implants in the body, including joint replacements, plates, screws, and rods, are usually made from stainless steel, cobalt chrome, or titanium. They are common, with 71,000 people in the UK alone having received a metal-on-metal hip device, according to the NHS. However, travelling with metal implants can be daunting due to the possibility of setting off metal detectors at airport security.
Metal implants will almost certainly set off airport metal detectors due to their extreme sensitivity in identifying a wide range of metal objects to ensure passenger safety. Orthopaedic implants will inevitably trigger an alert due to their metal content. If you have a metal implant, you should prepare for the detectors to go off when passing through airport security. It is important not to panic if this happens. Even without an implant, airport security scanners are highly sensitive and can detect even small metal objects. If the alarms go off, airport security will prompt you to complete a full-body scan if one is available. This security scan takes an image of your entire body to pinpoint the detection, ensuring nothing is missed.
In the past, healthcare providers supplied medical ID cards to notify security personnel if a person had a medical implant. While these cards could be helpful, they are not necessary and are no longer issued. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will accept a medical ID card or other documentation if you wish to discreetly describe your condition, but you will still have to undergo screening. There is no official document that can exempt you from screening if you have a metal implant. If you have an implanted heart device and security personnel need to use a hand-held wand, remind them not to hold it over your heart device as the magnet inside may cause interference. If you would rather not be screened using the hand-held wand, you can request a pat-down screening instead.
If you are concerned about your implant or condition, you can visit the TSA Cares Helpline or call 855-787-2227. You should consult with your physician or another healthcare professional before flying. Your doctor may be able to provide a note explaining that you have metal implants, which you can carry with you, although you will still be required to have a second scan if you set off the alarms.
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Secondary screening is common for those with implants
Metal implants in the body, including joint replacements, plates, screws, and rods, are often made from stainless steel, cobalt chrome, or titanium. These metals are designed to be durable and strong, but they will also set off metal detectors at airport security. While this can be a daunting prospect, there are ways to make the process less stressful.
It is standard procedure for anyone who sets off the alarms to be taken aside for a second screening. This could be a wand scan, a pat-down, or a full-body scan, depending on the equipment available at the airport. If you have a metal implant, it is likely that this additional screening will be necessary. You should inform the TSA officer that you have an implant, and they may use a hand-held wand to locate the metal. If you have an implanted heart device, remind the security personnel not to hold the wand over your heart, as the magnet inside may interfere with your device. You can also request a pat-down instead.
In the past, medical ID cards were issued to notify security personnel of a person's implant. However, these are no longer provided, and there is currently no official way to provide evidence of a metal implant. Nonetheless, you can still carry a note from your doctor, which may help to expedite the process. Being prepared and polite can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience for everyone involved.
Full-body scanners are becoming more common in airports, and these devices can detect metal implants. This allows security personnel to see what triggered the alarm, preventing the need for further screening. Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) is also used for full-body scans and can reduce the likelihood of a pat-down. If you have concerns about travelling with an implant, you can consult your physician or the TSA for guidance and reassurance.
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Be prepared and polite to ensure a smooth process
While metal implants are a common occurrence, affecting 71,000 people in the UK alone, travelling with them can be a daunting prospect. Metal detectors at airports are highly sensitive and will almost certainly detect your implant. However, with a little preparation and the right attitude, you can ensure the process is smooth and stress-free.
Firstly, don't panic. Metal detectors are designed to identify a wide range of metal objects to ensure passenger safety. It is standard procedure for anyone who sets off the alarm to be taken aside for additional screening. This could be a wand scanner, a pat-down, or a full-body scan. If you have a pacemaker or ICD, inform the security personnel, as the magnet inside the wand may interfere with your device. You can request a pat-down screening instead.
Secondly, be prepared. If you have a medical ID card, have it ready to show the agent. You can also carry a note from your doctor explaining your implant, although this is not essential. Inform the agent that you have a medical implant, and they may direct you to a full-body scanner. These are becoming increasingly common and can detect implants, preventing the need for further scans.
Finally, be polite and respectful to security personnel. They have been trained to handle sensitive issues and will treat you respectfully. A positive attitude and readiness can make the process quicker and less stressful for everyone.
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Frequently asked questions
Metal implants can set off metal detectors at the airport. These detectors are designed to identify a wide range of metal objects to ensure passenger safety. Orthopaedic implants will inevitably trigger an alert due to their metal content.
If your metal implants set off the alarms, you will be taken aside for another screening. You should inform the security personnel that you have a metal implant. You may be asked to proceed with a secondary screening, which could be with a wand scanner, a pat-down, or a full-body scan.
While there is no official document that you can carry, you can bring a note from your doctor explaining that you have metal implants. Some airports also accept medical ID cards or other documentation if you wish to discreetly describe your condition. However, you will still be required to undergo screening.
You should inform the TSA officer that you have a metal implant. Consult your physician prior to flying and visit the TSA website for more information. Being prepared and polite can also help ensure a quick and smooth security screening.
