Endoscopic retrieval of baggies in body stuffers

Background and study aims: Body packing/stuffing is currently a huge medical problem. A conservative approach and waiting for spontaneous packet expulsion are usually recommended. However, in a patient with packets stuck in the stomach, surgical treatments are generally advocated if complications occur.

Endoscopic evacuation of the packets is generally not favored because of its potential hazards, including manipulation and rupture of the packets and deterioration of the patients' condition. However, it may prevent more invasive treatment modalities including surgical intervention. We present case reports on four symptomatic body stuffers with potentially dangerous ingestions who underwent endoscopic evacuation of their packets and survived.

• References

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