Will My Metal Implant Set Off Airport Security?

The short answer

You may set off the alarm, but it is very unlikely to spoil your journey. Most people only need a quick check with a hand-held scanner and a brief explanation.

What our study found

We surveyed 200 patients with a hip replacement, knee replacement, leg nail, or plates and screws, at least a year after surgery. Of 53 who had flown since:

• About half (47%) set off the airport metal detector.
• Knee replacements were detected far more often than hip replacements: 71% against 31%. A knee replacement sits close to the skin, while a hip is deeper and shielded by bone and muscle.
• Nails and plates were detected about 4 times in 10.
• Of those detected, nearly three-quarters were waved through after a hand-held scan and a quick explanation.
• Only 5 people (9%) were asked to show a letter or their scar. One person (2%) faced a significant delay.

Do you need a letter?

Most people do not. If you fly often, have a knee replacement or would feel reassured, carry a copy of your clinic letter or operation note. Just ask and we can provide one.

Airport scanners have changed since this study, and many now use body scanners as well as walk-through metal detectors. Your implant may still show up, and the advice to allow a little extra time still applies. This paper was published under the spelling Abbassian.

Reference: Abbassian A, Datla B, Brooks RA. Detection of orthopaedic implants by airport metal detectors. Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England 2007;89:285–287. doi:10.1308/003588407X179026

Mr Abbasian sees patients at Guy’s Hospital and in private practice in London. Book a consultation.