[Surgical and forensic problems of body-packing]

Body-packing has increased as a means of illicit drug transportation, particularly since the intensification of customs control and luggage inspection which followed the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. This mode of drug transport may result in intestinal obstruction or systemic intoxication; diagnostic measures are discussed; management may require specific precautions and occasionally surgical intervention. The problem of how to handle and dispose of large quantities of drugs removed from or passed by a patient who may not be under arrest presents specific medicolegal considerations.