David R. Boyd lecture in trauma care and emergency medical systems: "The surgical complications of toxins."

Abstract

Toxins have had major roles in our societies for thousands of years. Interactions between surgeons, both generalists and subspecialists, and those caring for poisoned patients have been extensive throughout history. The advancement of the science of toxicology, the development of regional poison control centers, the development of emergency medicine, and the development of the subspecialty of medical toxicology have led to more appropriate and creative interactions between medical toxicologists, emergency physicians, and surgeons. This article will review the diverse interfaces between the medical toxicologist and the surgeon.