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Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) device support

Traveling with a CRT device

Back to the rhythm of life

As you recover with your new Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT) device, you may begin traveling again. It’s safe to travel with your CRT device as long as you talk to your doctor, carry your Medical Device ID Card and understand the following precautions before taking off.

Older husband and wife in the airport looking at a mobile device

Airport security

Going through airport security can be confusing even for people without an implanted device. To help make the process easier, be sure to show your Medical Device ID Card at the first security station. This card identifies you as an implanted device patient. After showing your card, follow the security staff’s directions. Depending on the airport, the staff may do one of the following:

  • Send you through the security full body scanner. The Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) full body scanner will not harm your CRT device, or change the programmed settings. However, your device contains metal parts that may set off airport security metal detector alarms
  • Use a hand-held security wand. If held over your CRT-D or CRT-P for too long, airport security wands could temporarily affect your device. If a wand must be used, tell the security officer that you have a CRT device, and to avoid holding the wand over your implanted area
  • Do a hand-pat search. If you request a hand-pat search, it can be conducted in a private area away from public view

Note: The full body scanner will show your device on their image, but it will not sound an alarm while you are inside the scanner. You may be asked to show your Medical Device ID Card or to stand aside for a hand-pat search.

Medical device ID card

Whether you’re running a quick errand or going away for an extended trip, it’s important to carry your Medical Device ID Card with you at all times. In an emergency, your card will let medical and security personnel know that you have an implanted device. In addition to your Medical Device ID Card, Boston Scientific offers a patient security card for international travel. The card explains in 13 languages that your implanted device may trigger airport security alarms. To get a Medical Device Patient Security Card, call us at 1-866-484-3268.

Boston Scientific’s Medical Device ID Card

Find a heart specialist while you’re traveling

You can search for facilities nationwide and internationally that treat patients with Boston Scientific CRT devices should you need assistance while traveling. 

Find a heart specialist

We’re here to help

Our patient services team is here to support you throughout your journey.

(866) 484-3268


Implantable Devices
Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Devices
Important Safety Information

Cardiac resynchronization therapy pacemakers (CRT-P) and defibrillators (CRT-D) are designed to treat heart failure patients who may or may not have symptoms or who may have symptoms despite the best available drug therapy. They are also designed to help your heart pump more effectively and meet your body’s need for blood flow. These devices are sensitive to strong electromagnetic interference (EMI) and can be affected by certain sources of electric or magnetic fields. Some of the risks encountered during the implant procedure include, but are not limited to, the following: Bleeding, formation of a blood clot, damage to adjacent structures (tendons, muscles, nerves), puncture of a lung or vein, damage to the heart (perforation or tissue damage), dangerous arrhythmias, kidney failure, heart attack, stroke, death. Some of the risks encountered after the ICD system is implanted may include, but are not limited to, the following: Infection, erosion of the skin near your device, lead(s) may move out of place in the heart, device may move from the original implant site, difficulty coping with having an implanted device. The device might be prevented from shocking or pacing due to electromagnetic interference. Electrodes on the lead or the pacing pulses may cause an irritation or damaging effect on the surrounding tissues, including heart tissue and nerves. You may receive a shock or pacing therapy when it is not needed (unnecessary therapy). The device might not be able to detect or appropriately treat your heart rhythms. The device may exhibit malfunctions that may result in lost or compromised ability to deliver therapy. You may experience some discomfort from the incision as you recover from the surgery. With all medical procedures there are risks associated. In rare cases device failure or death can occur. Be sure to talk with your doctor so that you thoroughly understand all of the risks and benefits associated with the implantation of this system. To obtain a copy of the device Patient Handbook for more detailed device safety information, go to www.bostonscientific.com, or you can request a copy by calling 1-866-484-3268 or writing to Boston Scientific, 4100 Hamline Ave. N., St. Paul, MN 55112. Rx only

Device Quality and Reliability

It is Boston Scientific’s intent to provide implantable devices of high quality and reliability. However, these devices may exhibit malfunctions that may result in lost or compromised ability to deliver therapy. Refer to Boston Scientific’s CRM product performance report on www.bostonscientific.com for more information about device performance, including the types and rates of malfunctions that these devices have experienced historically. While historical data may not be predictive of future device performance, such data can provide important context for understanding the overall reliability of these types of products. Also, it is important that you talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits associated with the implantation of a device. 

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