Abstract
Postoperative wound infections due to Gram-negative bacilli appear to be on the increase, although in most hospitals staphylococci are still the most common single cause. Evidence points to the patient himself as a major source of contamination of surgical wounds. Gram-negative infections are a serious threat in burn wounds. Newer approaches to burn management consist of topical use of antibacteria Is and attempts to boost immunity. In Vietnam, early debridement and delayed closure of battle wounds have resulted in a remarkably low infection rate.