This study evaluated minor surgery in seven general practices in Stockport during the last six months of 1988. Information was collected from general practitioners followed by a survey on patient and doctor satisfaction with the scheme. A total of 361 minor surgery procedures were undertaken with no serious consequences of intervention; the post-operative infection rate was less than 1%. Financial implications were identified, including the effect on the District histology services. The results suggest high doctor/patient satisfaction rates, and support the hypothesis that minor surgery in general practice presents a practical alternative to hospital provision.