In the period between January 1974 and 1977, a total of 358 selective proximal vagotomies were performed in patients with gastroduodenal ulcers avoiding pyloroplasty if possible. This report is concerned with intra- and postoperative experience with Burge's operating technique, incorporating LDS instruments from the USSC. The use of the instrument in preparing the proximal stomach is discussed. The instrument is recommended for reducing the time needed for emergency and simultaneous operations and for performing vagotomy in high risk patients.