Airport security

What is the recommendation on going through airport security? On my PM card it states that I can't even have a hand wand go over my body. So, what happens then? Pat search? What if they refuse to let me go through?

5 Comments

Security

by Mongee - 2011-05-22 01:05:00

It does depend on the airport. I have been going through airport security with my icd for 5 years and never had a problem, until last week. I always ask for a pat down. never felt offensive, and wand was not used by icd. Because of the new scanner, security thought I should go through it, but after awhile, he let me be patted down...dr. orders. If you are uncomfortable going through scanner, than ask for pat down. I also check my card (Medtronic) and it does not say no hand wand, but I do remember doctors telling me that after the first inplant. Before you know it, this will all be a normal part of your life. Just be thankful that you have the chance to experience all of this.
Good Luck
Mongee

security

by Parrothead57 - 2011-05-22 10:05:34

Hi Lake Breeze. I also have a Boston Scientific Altrua. Nowhere on my ID card does it say they cannot use the hand held wand. My device literature says its best if they don't use one, but if they insist, ask them not to keep the wand over the device for more than a couple seconds. You can request a pat down.

Members with travel experience will reply with more info I'm sure.

Happy travels
PH

Hi,

by Creaky - 2011-05-22 12:05:01

Guess it depends on your airport. I recently went through my first flight since the pacemaker. They had one of the full body scanners. When I mentioned the PM they politely steered me to it. They were very courteous. Unfortunately, my belt set off the alert so they ended up doing a pat down. Both procedures were not offensive or upsetting in any way. If I had the choice I'd go with scanner any day. Just remember to remove anything metal. If they don't have a scanner, the pat down isn't a big deal and the wand is OK too as long as they don't hold it over the PM.
I found everyone very helpful and kind (Boston Logan) but that may not be the case elsewhere. Just be cool.
Harry

Well, yes, but -

by SaraTB - 2011-05-23 01:05:23

Cabg Patch, I know what you mean: I recognise none of these things will affect my PM: BUT: in my experience, the TSA get very snotty with you if they detect something that you didn't mention BEFORE entering the machines. Then they behave as if you were trying to hide something.

So, in the interests of keeping everyone polite and calm, I tell them I have a pacemaker. They then insist that I have a pat-down, because they are afraid of being sued if anyone later claims their PM WAS affected. So, even though I know it'll be unaffected, I just don't want them getting in a snit with me in the event my PM does set off the alarm.

And, frankly, if it doesn't set off the alarm - the machine isn't set properly, and is effectively useless as a security device, isn't it?

Just my own view.

Just wondering if the security devices will...

by Lake Breeze - 2011-05-23 02:05:50

Just wondering if the security devices will harm the PM. I don't care if an alarm goes off. I just don't want my new bionic machine damaged!
LB

You know you're wired when...

You can finally prove that you have a heart.

Member Quotes

The pacer systems are really very reliable. The main problem is the incompetent programming of them. If yours is working well for you, get on with life and enjoy it. You probably are more at risk of problems with a valve job than the pacer.