Understanding Metal Implants and the Importance of Metal Implant Alert Cards
What Are Metal Implants?
Metal implants are medical devices that are placed inside the body to replace or assist damaged or missing anatomical structures. Typically made of metals like titanium, stainless steel, and cobalt-chromium, these implants come in various forms such as screws, rods, plates, and even artificial joints. They are commonly used in orthopaedic surgeries to repair fractures, replace hip or knee joints, and correct spinal deformities.
Where Can You Have Metal Implants?
Metal implants can be placed in different parts of the body depending on the medical condition being treated. Here are some common areas:
Hip: Total or partial hip replacements utilise metal components to replace damaged hip joints.
Knee: Knee replacements often involve metal parts to replace the ends of the femur and tibia, and sometimes even the kneecap.
Spine: Metal rods and screws are used to stabilise the spine in cases of severe scoliosis or vertebral fractures.
Shoulder: Shoulder implants often consist of a metal ball and stem that fit into a plastic socket, replacing damaged shoulder joints.
Jaw: Dental implants are often made of titanium and replace missing teeth.
Cardiovascular System: Stents are metal mesh tubes that keep arteries open, often used to treat coronary artery disease.
Cranial Plates: In neurosurgery, metal plates can be used to close skull defects.
Metal Detectors and Metal Implants: What Happens in Detail
Navigating through security points with metal implants can sometimes feel daunting, but understanding what happens can make the process smoother. Let's break it down:
Airports
Initial Screening: As you pass through the initial metal detector, the machine may or may not pick up the metal from your implant. Modern implants are often made of metals that are less likely to set off these detectors, but older or larger implants could potentially trigger them.
Secondary Screening: If the detector is triggered, security personnel will conduct a secondary screening. This usually involves the use of a handheld wand to identify the source of the alert. You may also be subject to a pat-down.
Protocol: Airport staff are trained to deal with these situations professionally. You'll usually be asked to step aside to a designated area for the secondary check to avoid holding up the line.
Other Security Checks
Buildings: Places like courthouses or sports arenas may also have metal detectors. Here, the process is similar to airports, but the security personnel might not be as accustomed to dealing with medical implants.
Random Checks: In some situations, you might be subject to a random check even if the metal detector doesn't go off. This is part of routine security measures.
Communication
Inform Ahead: Always inform the security staff about your implant before passing through the detector. Some people even choose to carry a medical ID or doctor’s note to corroborate their statement.
Verbal and Written Information: Having both verbal and written information can expedite the process. Security staff are more likely to wave you through once they have the necessary confirmation.
Unexpected Delays: Sometimes you may encounter a staff member who is not familiar with the protocols for handling passengers with metal implants. In such cases, having written confirmation can be invaluable in avoiding lengthy explanations or delays.
The Importance of Metal Implant Alert Cards
If you have a metal implant, carrying a Metal Implant Alert Card can make your life much easier, especially when travelling or going through security checks. That’s why we at The Card Project UK have developed a range of Metal Implant Alert Cards.
These cards are the size of a credit card and made from biodegradable plastic, meaning they are not only convenient but also environmentally friendly. The card clearly states that you have a metal implant and can be easily shown to security personnel, reducing the likelihood of unnecessary delays or additional screening.
Having a Metal Implant Alert Card gives you peace of mind, allowing you to smoothly pass through security checks without having to explain your medical history repeatedly. It's a simple yet effective way to navigate the complexities that can come with having a metal implant.
To learn more or to get your Metal Implant Alert Card, visit our website and explore our range. Hope to see you there soon!
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