Traveling With A Pacemaker: Are TSA's Body Scanners Dangerous?

If you pass through a U.S. airport, chances are you'll walk through an advanced imaging technology (AIT) machine. According to a 2019 report by the United States Government Accountability Office, all major airports in the country rely on AIT screenings, and over half of even the smallest hubs in the nation have at least one unit at their checkpoints. These body scanners are typically quick to use and are less invasive than manual screenings. However, some travelers question the safety of the machines.

One such group consists of fliers who use pacemakers. Going through TSA with a metal implant is generally safe, but some travelers fear that screening devices may interfere with their pacemakers — a mishap that could put them in grave danger. However, a 2019 study published in Heart, Lung, and Circulation confirmed that people with cardiac implantable electronic devices can expect to undergo airport screenings without harm. The study selected 302 patients with cardiac devices and placed them in an airport-style body scanner. The researchers found that there was no electromagnetic interference, and the devices maintained a regular pace throughout the screening process. With these results in mind, you can walk through the TSA body scanner without worry.

While TSA body scanners have been found to pose no significant risk for people with pacemakers, you may want to avoid metal detectors in security checkpoints. TSA urges travelers with pacemakers to refrain from using walk-through metal detectors in airport security. Similarly, wand metal detectors may interfere with pacemakers when continuously placed over the device. If your airport only uses metal detectors, limit your time spent in or near the scanning area to avoid complications. Additionally, inform the security officer of your pacemaker's location and ask that they don't hold the wand over the device any longer than necessary.

A security officer may require you to participate in a manual pat-down, especially if they aren't aware that you have an implanted pacemaker and it triggers the detector alarm. To avoid getting flagged by TSA, inform the agent of your device before your screening and, if you wish, present your medical device ID card. Note that you won't be able to refuse a TSA pat-down once it's requested.