Thanks to technology and medical advancements, having metals or medical devices placed inside the body to have a better life is very common now. As a result, a frequently asked question about cremation is what happens with the implants and the electronics when those people pass away.
The answer is there are certain rules and regulations about this varying from state to state. Basically in Florida, any devices that put a risk to the crematorium or the facility staff must be removed before cremation. Otherwise, it is not a requirement.
Electronics and Radioactive Implants
Electronic devices and radioactive implants must be removed completely before the cremation process as batteries can cause the chamber to explode. This includes pacemakers, spinal cord stimulators, or any medical equipment.
The same applies to radioactive implants, such as those used for cancer treatments. In fact, some cremation facilities may refuse to do a service for a body that has received these implants within 5 years. In this situation, those families have to choose another funeral alternative.
Metals and Jewelry
Gold, which is often found in jewelry and tooth fillings, cannot withstand the high temperature of the furnace so it should be removed prior to the process if the family would like to keep the gold teeth.
However, the cost to have a dentist involved may go higher than the value of the gold extracted itself. Therefore, an option is to let the gold melt and then recover it after the process.
Other popular metal implants that are made of steel, titanium, and staples are likely to survive but are still recommended for removal as much as possible before cremation. Then in the cooling stage, the funeral staff uses a magnet to sort out the leftovers from the ashes.
After that, the family has the option to either keep, sell or donate the metals to a medical recycling company
Organic Matters such as silicone, plastic, saline, and skin
Organic implants, which are commonly found in breast implants, plastic surgery, filler, and other cosmetic implants, are not required to be removed as they melt under high temperatures, and vaporate; and do not pose any safety risk.
Experienced Cremation Facility In Florida
As cremation is becoming more and more popular, there are increasing questions raised about this topic. Although there is common ground knowledge, there seems to be no one-size-fits-all answer since people undergo different experiences in life.
If you are looking for a trusted cremation facility in Florida, please contact Going Home Cremations. With 20 years of experience, Going Home Cremations knows what is the best practice by case. We are able to clear out all misunderstandings about cremation and any confusion you may have and provide the utmost care for your loved one.
And the forms for paperwork are available online – you can have the freedom to work on and sign them at home with our assistance.
Our price starts at $795 for direct cremation, with a FREE urn and premium online obituary included. We serve the areas of South West Florida including Sarasota, St. Petersburg, Port Charlotte, Fort Myers, and Tampa. For further information, please visit Our Affordable Cremation Page, Cremation & Scattering Ashes or Call Us For All Other Requests.
