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Heroin body packers

M J Utecht1, A F Stone, M M McCarron

  • 1University of Southern California School of Medicine, Los Angeles.

The Journal of Emergency Medicine
|January 1, 1993
PubMed
Summary
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Body packers ingested or inserted heroin packages, leading to complications like bowel obstruction and heroin toxicity. Early detection and intervention, including surgical removal, are crucial for managing these critical cases.

Area of Science:

  • Toxicology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Emergency Medicine

Background:

  • Body packing is a method of drug smuggling involving the concealment of illicit substances within the body.
  • Heroin is a highly addictive opioid derived from morphine.

Observation:

  • Fourteen body packers were analyzed, with nine ingesting and five rectally inserting heroin packages.
  • Ingested packages were large, radio-opaque, and consisted of concentrated heroin encased in latex, tape, and balloons.

Findings:

  • Two patients experienced severe complications: one with bowel obstruction and another with heroin intoxication, pulmonary edema, and bowel obstruction.
  • The latter case involved heroin wrapped inadequately, highlighting the risks associated with packaging material.

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Implications:

  • Prompt diagnosis and management of body packers are essential to prevent life-threatening complications.
  • Recommended interventions include observation, conservative management (laxatives, enemas), and surgical removal for persistent toxicity or obstruction.