(1) The technique of treatment of soft tissue injuries by the two-stage method is described, and the results considered in relation to those of other methods still practised. (2) Primary surgery is directed principally to the removal of conditions favourable to the development of bacteria, rather than to an attempt to produce an aseptic field. (3) Subsequent treatment is directed to the exclusion of possible secondary infection, by occlusive dressings, rigid aseptic technique, and early closure of wounds in one or more stages, by suture or by skin grafting. Emphasis must constantly be laid on early restoration of function in the affected part, and preservation of function in the uninjured parts. (4) Infected wounds may be sutured with a high proportion of successful results, provided there is no invasive cellulitis, and no sloughs, haematomata, or irritant foreign bodies are left in the wound. Under the heading of infected wounds one may probably include a considerable number of simple abscesses which are normally always left to heal by granulation.