Managing normal bowel function, whilst at the same time preventing contamination of perineal wounds with faeces provides a constant problem for burn nurses. Dressings to the Buttocks, perineum and thighs often need changing whenever the patient opens their bowels. In order to reduce this rigid surgical flatus tubes and endo-trachial tubes have been utilised with some effect, however if used for a prolonged period the non collapsible nature of these tubes may lead to sphincter dysfunction and lead to further contamination with faecal matter We present out initial experiences with the use of a newly developed device, the Zassi Bowel Management System since early 2004, explicitly describing the care of two patients with major burn injuries who bowel function was managed using the BMS. The Zassi Bowel management system features a patented trans-sphincteric catheter and retention cuff. The catheter allows normal bowel function to be retained whilst draining faecal matter into a 3 litre collection bag. The catheter can remain in place for up to 28 days before requiring replacement and is well tolerated due to its anatomically designed retention cuff To facilitate appropriate use a protocol was developed to guide staff in deciding if the BMS should be used, this included • Ventilated patients • Patients with buttock and perineal wounds • Uncontrolled diarrhoea Staff training was carried out by Senior Staff and the UK distributor (Actamed, Wakefield, UK) On insertion of the BMS, maintenance and stool modification, regular update sessions were held to ensure staff were comfortable in using the BMS. We have found the Zassi BMS to be useful tool in the management of normal bowel function, the device diverts feacal matter away from wounds and prevents soiling of dressings. we would encourage its use in all major burns