Successfully Passing Airport Security with an Orthopedic Implant

Feb 22, 2012 by admin

Traveling can be a hassle if you live with orthopedic plates, disks or screws – especially in times of strict airport security. Whether you have a few screws in your arm or two total knee replacements, follow these tips to ensure you pass through security timely and hassle-free.

It’s initially important to realize that different types of implants, implant composition and location of implants in the body independently determine whether or not they are detected. A study by the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center concluded that:

Relevant to types of implants:

Arthroplasties are detected more than plates
Screws, wires, rods and intramedullary nails are hardly ever detected

Relevant to location in the body:

More than half of all orthopedic implants are detected
All hip replacements are detected
90 percent of knee replacements are detected
Implants in the lower extremities (legs) are 10 times more likely to be detected than those in the upper extremities (arms, shoulders)
Complete wrist and shoulder replacements are not likely to be detected
Implants in the spine are least likely to be detected

Relevant to the composition of implants:

Cobalt-Chromium implants are most detected
Titanium implants are occasionally detected
Stainless steel implants are least likely to be detected

If you are a traveler with an implant that is likely to be detected, or you would simply like to take proactive measures in the face of airport security, follow these tips shared by the Transportation Security Administration to avoid delay or irritation:

Allow for 5-15 extra minutes to pass through security
Notify the security staff of your implant before you pass through the detector
Ask your orthopedic surgeon for a signed note or a small card to verify your joint replacement or metallic implant if you are confronted by airport security
Prepare to be more closely searched (thoroughly patted and inspected by a detector wand) – If you feel uncomfortable, you may ask to be searched in a more private area
Dress in clothing that would easily allow you to reveal your surgical scar – such as sweat pants, a short-sleeved shirt and a zip-off sweatshirt, etc.

Airport security will always be stressful, and despite all your best efforts, you may be searched every time as a result of having an orthopedic implant. Just remember that airports security is in the best interest of everyone, and their efforts save the lives of unimaginable numbers of innocent travelers. Most of all be patient and airport security will at most be a minor inconvenience. Happy travels!