My husband has had platinum coils placed in his head, will these cause a problem at the airport security?

Question

My husband has had several AVM surgeries and has had platinum coils placed in his head. His doctor said that "they shouldn't be a problem" But I am wondering if we should get some kind of letter anyways because I don't want to have trouble, or be late for our flight because "they should" be okay? Anyone have any experience with platinum implants and airport metal detectors?

Answer 1

I have also had this same surgery/procedure for an AVM. They ended up having to leave some of the platinum coils in my head from the embolization after the surgery. My doctor also told me I would have no problems and he was right. I have no problems at the airport and I travel all the time. I do not carry a letter with me, although I did consider it. Have fun on your travels!!

Answer 2

No, but I"ve had experience with Airport Security.

If you're really concerned, go down to the Airport on a day long before your flight. Pick a time when there is very little traffic. Tell the Security people your concerns and ask them to allow your husband to walk through the gate to check the sensitivity. Also allow them to wand him all over if his 'coils' shoudl set off the detector. Be up front and honest and carry NOTHING else which is metal.

Answer 3

I worked for an airline for many years, no one HAS to go through the security detectors. Your husband should have card or a letter from the doctor stating he had a medical procedure and platinum implants and then he will be waived past the metal detecors and they will perform a hand search on him. The hand held devices are less magnetic and will be fine. They will pat him down instead of making in walk through the detector if it would make you more comfortable. Just allow plenty of time to get through security and you will be fine. You will NEVER get any trouble from TSA for surgical implants. Just for your sanity, get either a card or letter and you will be fine. Take a deep breath, travelling with implants is not a big deal.

If you need extra time with boarding, ask the gate agent when they open the gate if you can pre-board. This way you can be seated and situated and not have 200 people behind you rushing you to get to their seats.

Answer 4

It should be no problem. If the doctor considered it to be a problem then your husband would have been issued an ID card for a person with a foreign body implant. Trust me if he does set the dectectors off and they wand him they may feel his head, then they will let him through. Only a truly skilled person could store dangerous weapons in their skull and be able to get them out once on the plane. Happy Vacation!!!!!!!

Answer 5

I've had total knee replacements and I always set off the alarms. I carry a card from the doctor and they double check me and then I'm on my way.It only takes a couple of minutes. It will probalby be the same with your husband.

Answer 6

I would think it may set off the security alarms, but as long as you have some sort of documentation about the plates you should get through alright

Answer 7

I would suggest that you talk to your Dr., get a letter to confirm the plateGive to security.The is a possibility that the security scan could fry your hubby'sb rain.Ok? Tom

Answer 8

I have heard that people with surgical objects in their head have a special card that says so, so that they don't get hasseled at the airport. You might want to ask your physician about it.

hope this helps

Answer 9

I would trust your doctor that the information they gave you is correct. I'm sure they have had allot of experience with this subject.
If you are still uncertain of their answer I'd be persistent in asking them again.