Surgery and training in surgery in remote rural hospitals.

Surgery is an important part of primary health care in remote rural areas of third world countries. It is essential that doctors and nurses who are working in rural hospitals are adequately trained in surgery. Special consideration should be given to the surgical pathology encountered in the rural tropical environment. Teaching should take place in the set-up of the rural hospital and should include anaesthesia, sterilisation and maintenance of equipment. A concept of teaching in surgery in peripheral hospitals is presented.