Why does my knee set off airport security?

Total shoulder, hip, and knee replacement implants are composed of cobalt-chromium alloys or titanium and are most likely to be detected. Meanwhile, stainless-steel plates, screws, intramedullary nails, wires, and screws are the least likely implants to be detected.



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If you have a hip replacement, knee replacement, a metal plate and screws, a metal rod inside your bone, or one of many other types of orthopedic implants, you may set off the airport metal detector.

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These modalities can detect both inflammatory and destructive changes.

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Download and complete a Notification Card to be provided to the TSA officer who will be conducting your screening. The Notification Card is intended to describe your health condition, disability or medical device to the TSA officer in a discreet manner, helping to ensure your privacy.

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With a knee replacement, you need to prepare to go through security. After all, your knee can set off the medical detectors. If you're planning on flying, ask your doctor to provide you with a letter that talks about your surgery. It's also possible for airport security to ask to see your surgery scar.

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Consult with your doctor before you travel long distances in a car.
  1. Rent a Large Car. If traveling a long distance is necessary, try to rent a large car. ...
  2. Take the Back Seat. ...
  3. Recline Your Seat. ...
  4. Plan Your Trips With Frequent Stops. ...
  5. Book the Seat Next to the Aisle. ...
  6. Use Compression Socks.


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If TSA officers find marijuana or other drugs during a routine screening process, they're supposed to notify local law enforcement, which makes the final call. That final call can vary. If you're in a state where marijuana is legal, local law enforcement probably won't respond to airport calls if it's found.

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Also, TSA officers may swab your hands, mobility aids, equipment and other external medical devices to test for explosives using explosives trace detection technology.

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Do seniors automatically get PreCheck? No. Anyone who wants to receive PreCheck needs to apply. However, TSA does provide people who are 75 years old or older access to an expedited screening process in the regular screening lines: You can keep your light jacket and shoes on.

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TSA Cares is designed to assist travelers with disabilities and medical conditions and others who may need additional assistance with screening.

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Wearing a sunflower lanyard enables passengers to self-identify to staff that they have a hidden disability. It is a voluntary program and passengers are not required to participate. Passengers may choose to disclose their disability on the card, but they do not have to.

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