Variation in general practitioner referral of patients with arterial disease.

Aim: To compare patterns of referral for arterial disease in two areas in the UK.

Methods: A postal questionnaire was used to survey general practitioner (GP) referral patterns for arterial disease. Questionnaires were sent to West Berkshire GPs in 1993 and 2000 and to Llantrisant GPs in 2000.

Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus in patients undergoing major amputation.

Objectives: To examine the impact of MRSA infection on patients undergoing major amputation.

Setting: District General Hospital.

Methods: Patients having had major amputation and positive MRSA cultures January 1995-December 1999 were included.

An audit of care received by patients injured during sporting activities.

A summary of injuries sustained by 340 sportsmen over 9 successive weekends from 16 November 1991 to 12 January 1992 attending an accident and emergency (A&E) department is presented. Most injuries occurred in young males usually as a result of soccer or rugby. Sixty-seven per cent of patients were discharged with no further followed up in hospital.