Travel two weeks after pacemaker implantation?

Take it easy

by Keithchesterfield - 2017-12-04 05:47:45

Avoid the Security metal detector check-in devices, you should have a PM Identification Card to allow you not to pass through the Security Gate, and just do what you normally did before the Pacemaker was fitted except for the arm lifting.

And whatever you do don't join in any contact sport for at least 6 weeks after the implant and then only after the 6 week check you should be having.

Try and use Mobile Phones on the opposite side to where your PM is situated, avoid stopping at the anti-theft barriers in stores and take it easy with any drinking you may do.

Increase your activity level slowly over the first few months – unless you want a trip back to the Hospital for remedial work !

Keith

Activity after a pacemaker

by Selwyn - 2017-12-04 11:49:38

PMs  often need to be fine tuned to get the best for exercise out of them. This is done on the first check up.

Provided you have not had a pneumothorax  at time of insertion( see chest X-ray), you should be safe to fly. 

There is no restriction as to what to do with your arm, rather keep it to what is comfortable. Many studies have shown that restricting arm movement does not reduce lead  detachment problems, rather it produces restricted and painful shoulders. 

You need to keep the wound dry until the scab comes off. Any undue pressure on the wound site would not be good. Wound strength is almost 100% by 6 weeeks. It is difficult to wear a backpack ( even now I have to be careful), and certainly would not advise this within the first 6 weeks. You can always ask for a cabin assistant to help with the luggage- don't be shy!

 Four days after my PM insertion I was riding my bicycle 10 miles a day. If you are up to it, start with some gentle exercise and build up slowly. 

After all surgery, there is tiredness, related to the anxiety prior to this, and the healing process. It may be best to not set targets, but rather go with what your body is telling you is reasonable. 

If you don't go through the metal detectors at airports ( and I don't, though some folk do with PMs.) you will get a 'pat down' ( unless they have the new stand with your arms above your head radio machines, that could also be difficult for you). Don't let them put their 'magic wand', hand held, metal detector near to the PM. It is not likely to do your electrics much good. 

Selwyn

New Airport Scanning Devices and Thank You

by mizzzy1o9 - 2017-12-04 13:16:43

Thank you so much for all of this advice! I feel alot better about the recovery process and hopefully being able to travel! Am I also suppose to stay out the 'new stand with your arms above your head' X-ray machines after I heal as well(my home airport has them)? Do these machines interfer with the device?

Thanks again,

Missy

Airport Security

by Keithchesterfield - 2017-12-04 14:14:18

According to the leaflets given to me after my PM was fitted the Airport Security machines that you walk through can affect the PM.

Make sure that a hand held scanner is not placed directly over your PM.

Do you have a PM Identification Card to show to Security Staff ?

I'm up for a 'frisk' any day of the week - Airport or not !!!!!

Keith

Airport hands above head scanners

by Selwyn - 2017-12-05 15:36:39

Are PM safe. 

'As the energy used ( low level radio frequency) is non-invasive, it is safe for pregnant women as well as passengers with pacemakers or surgical metal implants (i.e. plates, screws).

To be scanned, you must be able to walk through the scanner unassisted and lift your arms fully above your head. '

airports

by Tracey_E - 2017-12-06 11:11:06

The wands below the waist only.

Scanners are completely safe.

I avoided the metal detectors for years but when I had my last replacement they said it was ok to walk through them now, that the newest devices are very well shielded. I've been doing it for about a year now, no issues.

The airports see pacermakers all day long and generally are well trained and polite. They will always do a pat down rather than wand us. Problems are more likely to come up with the untrained teenager with the wand working security at a concert or amusement part. I find scaring them works best lol. "Please don't get that too close to my pacemaker, you can turn it off"  Ok, so that's a bit of an exaggeration, truth is the worst it can do is safety mode for a few seconds, but it's easier than a long explanation and they almost always wave me through without further discussion. I will always choose to walk through a metal detector over dealing with someone with a wand. The wand is the same technology but more concentrated.