Radiation Treatment and Travel: Will Airport Security Be an Issue?

Just finished 20 radiations for DCIS ,I have never heard of a balion, please be careful, I am not sure that’s even close to the latest protocol.

I recently had radiation treatment myself and no ballon inserted. I never heard of this before

No balloon for me. Just tattooed

I didn’t even have a tattoo or balloon. Weird.

Paulette, do you mean the clips they put in where the tumor was? If so they will remain permanently and they aren’t detected in airport screening

I was shown a device wit tubes that’s inserted to administer radiation through directly into the breast. I might be using the wrong term. I’ll see the radiation oncologist on Tuesday and get further clarification.

That sounds like a way just to radiate the area where tumor was.

Hi Paulette. I wonder if they plan to do brachytherapy? Radioactive seeds or something like that directly in the breast rather than external beam

Yes. The radiotherapy will go directly into the breast.

You use the term”Radiotherapy” so you must be in the UK as in the US we say Radiation. All Radiation goes :into: the breast ….It works from the inside out so for me no signs of anything till #17 then a minor dermatitis , and a delicate pink color. But all in all no side effects - In and out within 30 mins max.

The wire is inserted about an hour before surgery and is removed after they are done. I also had no tattoo or anything For radiation as the latest machines use a Lazer beam which they get into place at the mapping appointment—I do have a clip- That’s for the surgeon to guide the exact place. I ask a lot of questions, and digest the answers

My marks or tattoo as I call it is gone now. I was marked so the beam would go to correct area. Radiologist did this before 1st treatment. Trial run ...

I am also Paulette

Airport security screening with medical devices can definitely be a concern, and it's great that you're planning ahead for your vacation. Medical devices and implants can sometimes trigger security equipment, so bringing documentation from your medical team about the balloon and any wires is usually recommended. Many travelers with medical devices find it helpful to arrive at the airport with extra time and to let TSA agents know about their medical situation before screening begins. Your oncologist will be the best resource for specific guidance about timing and what to expect with your particular treatment setup.