Metal Hip Replacement Airport Security

Airport security with a metal implant.

Metal hip replacement airport security.

What can i do to simplify the process. I had a hip replacement four months ago i am guessing it might set of the alert when i go through airport security. This has been the only option available until recently. The british orthopaedic association used to issue orthocards to make getting through security less time consuming and stressful for those with metal implants however they are no longer able to issue these.

We used to give patients a card to carry to inform the security staff of your implanted device however there is no need to continue to use these cards. Flying after a hip replacement airport security. For some patients this type of travel may be uncomfortable for several months after. Full body scanners now found in many airports accomplish a security scan without the worry of your metal replacement joint setting off an alarm.

Doctors advise patients not to travel by air for at least six weeks after undergoing hip replacement surgery. If you re selected for a pat down after the metal detector beeps you can reveal your surgical scar and be quickly on your way. Pat down and wand. Fortunately you can easily show the airport security staff that your artificial implant was the reason for setting off the metal detector.

If you ve had a hip or knee replaced you are probably worried about going through airport security. The imaging technology clearly reveals implants which makes getting to the gate faster. For many joint replacement patients the simplest way to get through airport security is to opt for x ray screening. I have a letter from my gp stating i have had this procedure.

Therefore further screening may still be required. I ve flown eight times since my hip replacement last year and unlike so many people i meet in the forums have no problems with the increased measures taken as my hip sets the alarms bells ringing. Unfortunately there is no official document you can carry to prove that you have metal implants. If the airport offers both metal detectors and a full body scanner you can request the full body scan.

As soon as you present your ticket and picture id tell the tsa agent about your metal knee or hip joint. We ll show you the one thing to do. One thing to know. If you have a hip replacement knee replacement a metal plate and screws a metal rod inside your bone or one of many other types of orthopedic implants you may set off the airport metal detector.