[The Pediatric Urology Conference]

This meeting was first established in 1972 for the purpose to make free discussion between the urologists and pediatric surgeons on pediatric urology. Several themes, such as undescended testis, hydronephrosis, intersex and stone disease, have been talked over. Ano-rectal malformation was one of the main themes, and many different opinions from both urological and surgical sides have been presented for the prevention of the complications of pelvic surgery. Pediatric urology has undergone a remarkable progress in the past 30 years. The main contribution has been brought about through the better understanding of the diseases in this field. Newer diagnostic methods and operative techniques have also influenced the development. What is left for the future in pediatric urology is how to preserve the renal function. It is not rare that the diseased child goes on to the end-stage renal failure, in spite of the successful intervention of urinary tracts. Hypodysplasia of the kidney is still incurable in the modern medicine. The best alternative may be renal transplantation. Pediatric urology is one member of a team of specialists to whom cases are referred by pediatricians and obstetricians. Earlier diagnosis, for example by the echogram of the fetus, and higher operative techniques are the themes in the future.