Originally Posted by
corporate-wage-slave
I would be thinking of a doctor's note. I was in the USA when I could tell someone was in this scenario (OK I didn't count all the screws) but I could see on the monitor the MSK surgery that had happen and why it was done. However the USA agent seemed totally perplexed as to what to do since the passenger wasn't able to speak much English and it was therefore very hard for the agent to resolve the problem.
Probably a good idea, although I've been through the USA with the rods, plate and screws without issue. I do carry a card for the electrical implant with all relevant information, including serial numbers of the kit (funnily enough it was made in the USA). I also doubt that I'll ever be going to the USA (or anywhere in North America) again anyway due to medical insurance costs; hopefully the countries to the east won't be so paranoid - they haven't been so far anyway.