The effect of manpower and medical facility reduction on surgical practice during the Gulf Conflict 1991.

The General Surgical admissions to Royal Naval Hospital, Stonehouse from 1 April 1990-31 March 1991 were audited. This period included the Gulf War. There remained throughout the build-up to Operation Desert Storm, and during the actual conflict, a requirement to treat Service personnel as well as maintaining surgical training. This paper shows that both criteria were met despite reduced medical manpower and facilities.