ABC of Tubes, Drains, Lines and Frames

Surgical patients are increasingly undergoing operative procedures that require complex post-operative care followed by prolonged rehabilitation in the community, and few leave surgery without a wound, tube, line or drain. The care of these surgical adjuncts is undertaken either in hospital by ward staff or away from the hospital in the community, where GPs and practice nurses are expected to take over the day-to-day management of this care.The ABC of Tubes, Drains, Lines and Frames is a practical guide that provides a clear account of the key issues involved in the assessment and management of surgical wounds, tubes, drains, lines and stomas - from the operating theatre to the Critical Care unit and from the ward into the community. It highlights common pitfalls and includes 'trouble shooting' sections that provide an understanding of the issues at all stages of post-operative care.This new ABC is an invaluable resource for all GPs, practice nurses, surgical nurses, junior doctors, and community paramedics.

Adam Brooks trained in hepatobiliary surgery, critical care and trauma surgery in the UK, South Africa, Australia and the USA. He has developed significant experience in the management of complex surgical patients and the breadth of surgical complications and their management. He has co-edited 4 surgical textbooks and written more than 30 chapters.

Peter Mahoney is a consultant in anaesthesia and resuscitation with the Defence Medical Services. He has worked in resource- limited areas with NGOs and has co-edited 3 text books (Ballistic Trauma, Conflict and Catastrophe, ABC of Conflict and Disaster)

Brian Rowlands is Professor of Surgery and Head of Critical care course at Nottingham and Chair of the RCS group working on the care of the critically ill patient ( a course for surgical trainees). He will be President of the Assocn of Surgeons of GB and I in May 2007