Airport Security and Orthopedic Implants

To minimize the potential for hassle in passing through airport security, if you have an orthopedic implant, you should have a note from your doctor!

The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons has suggested that physicians routinely offer patients a letter or card as proof of implant surgery as a way of dealing with airport security checks for patients with medical implants. Be advised, however, that a note from a physician will not necessarily speed up the move through security. If a security alarm sounds, the Federal Aviation Administration requires a resolution: A hand-held screener is used, and, if needed, the implant patient must consent to a noninvasive body search in order to board the plane.