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Endoscopic removal of a hashish packet
Aurora Burgos García1, Consuelo Froilán Torres1, Mariana Tavecchia1
1Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario La Paz, España.
Revista Espanola De Enfermedades Digestivas
|February 28, 2017
Summary
Body packers smuggling drugs pose a rising medical-legal challenge. Endoscopic removal of illicit drug packets is risky due to potential rupture and overdose, as seen in a hashish smuggling case.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Illicit drug trafficking via internal concealment, known as body packing, is an increasing global concern.
- Medical professionals face challenges in managing body packers, particularly regarding safe packet retrieval.
- Endoscopic removal is generally contraindicated due to the high risk of packet integrity compromise and acute substance toxicity.
Observation:
- A 40-year-old male presented to the hospital with severe abdominal pain and diaphoresis.
- The patient was in police custody, indicating he was apprehended for illegal activities.
- He admitted to ingesting approximately 30 grams of hashish, consistent with body packing for drug trafficking.
Findings:
- The case highlights the clinical presentation of a body packer presenting with symptoms potentially related to drug ingestion or packet burden.
- The quantity of hashish ingested (30g) represents a significant load, posing risks of toxicity and intestinal obstruction.
- The patient's custody status necessitates careful medical management with consideration for legal implications.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing body packing as a medical emergency requiring specialized management protocols.
- It emphasizes the risks associated with endoscopic retrieval and the need for alternative, safer intervention strategies.
- Effective collaboration between medical and law enforcement agencies is crucial for the optimal care and legal processing of body packers.