HEROIN BODYPACKING

Drug smuggling by internal bodily concealment is a well-recognized int ernational problem, particularly in view of the difficulty of its dete ction and the potential for large financial gains. This mode of transp ort can have serious medical complications, including drug intoxicatio n - sometimes fatal - as well as intestinal obstruction by foreign bod ies (FBs). We discuss a case of heroin 'bodypacking' (the ingestion of heroin filled condoms) with its resultant complications. The initial medical management and indications for surgery are discussed, and the relevant literature reviewed.