What an interesting thread! I had my shunt placed when I was 23 (now I'm 25) and the only warning I got from my neurosurgeon was to avoid handheld security wands. However, I found out recently (from representatives who sell the Medtronics shunts at a hydrocephalus walk) that the chances of a security wand affecting the setting of a programmable shunt is extremely low...so I stopped worrying! Once in a while I will realize that I feel some pressure and pain near my shunt if I am on my cell phone too long, so I just end whatever conversation I am having. Thanks for all the valuable input!