Abstract: A passive transponder may be encoded with a binary number or code of 64 bits or more and then associated with or mounted to virtually any implant intended for implantation in a human including temporary implants such as drug release implants and organ displacement devices. After implantation, the transponder's code may be conveniently read with a hand held electromagnetic reader which may merely be brought within proximity of the transponder. The encoded transponder may thus be read in a non-invasive procedure and without the use of any sophisticated or potentially harmful medical equipment or technology such as X-rays. Where the position of the implant in the human changes over time, or is otherwise unknown to attending medical personnel, the transponder and implant can be located by using a strength of signal indicator on the electromagnetic reader.