Recurrent varicose veins: A national problem

Scene: Sister's office, a surgical ward in any National Health Service hospital Time: Coffee time, after the Monday morning ward round Consultant: 'We had better think about tomorrow afternoon's operating list; I will start with the highly selective vagotomy and follow that with the right hemicolectomy'. ( Turns to newly appointed registrar) 'Unfortunately, John, I have a management board meeting after that, so perhaps you could finish off with the varicose veins'.