Question about metal hardware

[a_crftyldy]

Last January I had an ACDF done at the C-6, C-7 level. I also had a titanium plate and screws attached to said vertebrae. I asked if I would receive a card stating that I have metal hardware to use at security checkpoints where metal detectors are used. My surgeon said one was not needed because the metal used was titanium and therefore should not set off any metal detectors. However, according to a friend of mine in the millitary, titanium is a metal and will set off a metal detector. Although I don't ususally go through security checkpoints on a regular basis, I have had to go through a couple since my surgery and have found it to be a major pain.

My question for the OR nurses is, is it common practice to issue some kind of a card for patients who receive metal hardware implants or is it just not done?

Thanks

[Jami RN, BSN, RN]

FWIW -- I had knee surgery last year that required three large titanium screws in my tibia. I wasn't given a card either, but I've flown several times since then and haven't set off a metal detector.

[a_crftyldy]

Thanks for the reply. That's odd that you haven't set off any metal detectors but the few experiences I've had they went off despite my removal of all metal items. I then have the assume the position so they can wave the little wand over me. I just tell them that I have a metal plate in my neck but sometimes they just give me that "sure lady, whatever" look.

Doh! Just noticed I put C-6, C-7 level when it was actually C-5, C-6. Oh well, my finger didn't want to type this morning. :chuckle