Conquering internal process problems with the use of cross-functional self-directed work teams.

The purpose of this article is to introduce a no-nonsense approach to motivating employees while reducing cycle time, improving quality, and creating a flexibly trained, self-directed work force. The article focuses on both the use of cross-functional teams and the change in the role of management that must occur.

Anti-inflammatory drug therapy after arthroscopy of the knee. A prospective, randomised, controlled trial of diclofenac or physiotherapy.

We report a prospective, randomised, controlled trial of the effect of either a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (diclofenac sodium) or physiotherapy on the recovery of knee function after arthroscopy. At 42 days after surgery there was no significant benefit from either form of postoperative treatment compared with the control group. Complications attributable to the anti-inflammatory drug occurred in 9.6% of the patients so treated. Neither the routine administration of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent nor routine physiotherapy is justified after arthroscopy of the knee.