The purpose of this study was to determine the best system of meeting the surgical pack requirements of the operating room at Hendrick Memorial Hospital, Abilene, Texas. The study compared the reusable and disposable surgical packs in terms of the issues of technical acceptability, professional staff acceptance, storage, waste disposal, source of supply, and costs and fringe benefits. Advantages and disadvantages of disposables were discussed and compared against criteria established for their adoption. The disposable surgical packs were recommended to supplement the reusable surgical packs.