Travelling with a cardiac device (ICD)

The cardiac devices itself have nearly no limits when travelling. In general, it is the underlying heart disease or arrhythmia that limits patients’ travel activities. Therefore, before traveling consult your treating cardiologist to discuss any limitations for the planned holiday. It may make sense to have a device check-up, especially for long journeys.

It is reasonable to travel after device implantation only after wound healing is complete because arm movement on the implantation site is limited and the risk of wound infection and lead dislocation is elevated in the phase early after device implantation. Nevertheless, if necessary, flying is possible two days after an uncomplicated implantation if pneumothorax (air in the space between your lung and chest wall that pushes on the outside of your lung and makes it collapse) can be excluded.

Security checks, including metal detectors and body scanners, can be passed safely by patients with cardiac devices. Only repetitive movement of a handheld metal detector over the device should be avoided. Nevertheless, since there is a potential interaction between the metal detector and the cardiac device, it is advised to identify yourself as having a cardiac device with your device ID/passport. It is recommended to have an English card when traveling internationally.

When traveling to different time zones it might be reasonable to deactivate a programmed sleep rate.

Always carry the policy number of your medical and travel insurance with you and your European health insurance card which you can use to prove that you are entitled to medical care. Furthermore, it is recommended to bring with you when you travel with a cardiac device:

• Sufficient medication
• Overview of your medical history and medication
• Phone number of your treating hospital
• Health insurance and travel insurance details, including emergence phone numbers
• Phone number of the manufacturer of your device
• Cardiac device ID/passport

 

Especially in the case of ICD, it is wise, before you go on holiday, to check whether there will be hospitals nearby that you can go to in case of an emergency. The following manufacturers of cardiac devices provide a list of hospitals across the world that are equipped for caring for patients with such devices:

• Biotronik: https://www.biotronik.com/en-us/patients/travel-guide
• Medtronic: http://www.medtronic.com/traveling
• BostonScientific: https://www.bostonscientific.com/en-US/patients/find-a-heart-specialist.html

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I fly with a pacemaker?

Yes, you can safely fly with a pacemaker. Inform security personnel at airport checkpoints to avoid going through certain metal detectors or scanners.

What precautions should I take while traveling with a pacemaker?

Carry your pacemaker ID card, avoid close proximity to magnetic equipment, and discuss travel plans with your doctor to ensure safety.

Can you fly with a defibrillator or heart monitor?

Yes, flying with a defibrillator or heart monitor is generally safe. Notify the airline and airport security about your device to avoid complications.

Is travel insurance necessary for pacemaker patients?

While not mandatory, travel insurance with medical coverage is highly recommended for pacemaker patients to address potential health emergencies.

Are there any restrictions with a loop recorder while traveling?

No, implantable loop recorders are safe for travel. However, you should inform airport security and carry documentation about the device.

Can pacemaker patients go through metal detectors?

Yes, but inform security personnel, as prolonged exposure to metal detectors or full-body scanners may interfere with the pacemaker. Hand-held wands should be used cautiously.