Metal, XRays, Airports, and MRIs

[Wheetsin 714]

I had a big old reply to this, and then my computer crashed, so you get the truncated version.

Airports - once I set off the metal detector (out of 40+ flights, so that's probably 90 - 100+ gates). The wand picked up in the immediate area of my port, and I could not explain it any other way - e.g. no underwire bra, no metal zipper, no other implants, etc. I go through this gate for most of my flights, and only had this happen once. Fluke? Maybe. Actual trigger? Maybe. Who knows.

MRI - Should not be an issue unless the metal is loose (and why would it be) or near a dangerous area. For example, a plate screwed into a bone - that's not going to go anywhere, and should not cause any problems with the MRI. A metal rod running next to your optic nerve - you might not be getting an MRI anytime soon. (I asked a good friend who is a doctor about this).

Diving - I dive with a deep diving specialty and no problems so far. I questioned Inamed about the integrity of the abnd under pressure extensively, and never had an indication that it would be a problem. As for how you react - if anything things should get a heck of a lot looser. Your tissues are going to be much more susceptible to pressure changes than silicone. Maybe diving is the cure for being stuck.

[TerryF 0]

PCGUMSHOE is correct. The metal detectors at the airports are usually not set high enough to detect the port. If by chance it should, explain to the TSA person what you had done. Yes, they will put you in secondary screening, (using the wand). And yes you can request to be taken in private, versus being screened in public. Just plan for the extra time and don't get huffy with them. Remember they are there for your protection (I don't think any of us want another 9/11), and causing a scene can cause you to be delayed longer. PC is correct that TSA does not have arrest authority, but they do have the authority to detain you till someone like me (airport police) show up and find out the problem. This delay could take long enough to cause you to miss your flight.

[kaohinani 0]

I has replied earlier that my DH and I have gone thru the airport many times with no problems, but...... today he left for a business trip and of all things, wouldn't you know it, his port set off the metal detector, the only thing that helped get him thru I guess was that the screener could feel the port thru the skin. My DH did offer to take his shirt off it it would help, but they said it was OK, go figure??????

[StuNY 0]

Actually I've just been approved for my banding Jan 21st and while discussing the procedure with my surgeon, he said I would get a card with something about a surgical implant for the metal detectors at airports