ABSTRACT: This study was performed on 100 shunt treated hydrocephalic children in whom pre and post-operative clinical psychological assessment was done and expressed as mental performance quotient (MPQ). In 33 of these children the shunt was revised due to blockage. MPQ was also done prior to shunt revision in these 33 children and it was compared with the post-operative MPQ available just prior to the shunt block. The mean fall in MPQ was 17.85 plus minus 9.83 due to the shunt blockage. This study suggests that in shunt treated hydrocephalic children a fall in MPQ of 10 points or more should be indicative of shunt malfunction and these children should be evaluated for it so that corrective measures can be taken without delay.

ABSTRACT: Urodynamic studies play an important role in the proper urological management of Spina Bifida patients. We present our experience with the aim of identifying the different urodynamic groups and their prognostic implications. The paper also highlights the problems arising when comparisons between similar reports are to be made. 31 cases of Spina bifida underwent complete urological evaluation including urodynamic testing. Depending on the types of detrusor and sphincter activity these patients could be categorised into 6 urodynamic groups. The treatment and outcome was then analysed for each group. Outcomes were assessed in terms of 'dryness achieved' and 'preservation of renal function'. Our groups and their urodynamic features were then compared with other similar reports. This paper suggests a urodynamic classification of urinary bladder in Spina bifida. The need for a consensus on urodynamic terminology, procedures and interpretation is emphasized.

ABSTRACT: Neoplasm of testis in infants and children is not so common. Malignant tumors are more common than benign tumors;7 (seven) consecutive cases of testicular tumors are presented. These patients were encountered over a period of 13 years from Burdwan Medical college and IPGME&R, SSKM Hospital, Calcutta. Clinicopathological study and follow up of the cases are discussed with a review of literature. Yolk sac tumor was the most common tumor. When diagnosed and treated early, it carries a good prognosis.

ABSTRACT: Fifty children underwent cystolithotomy during the five year period, January 1985-December 1989. These patients were divided into 2 groups I & II randomly. After removing the calculus, the cystotomy was closed in the conventional two layers with an indwelling Foley's catheter in group I. In the patients of group II, a three layered water-tight closure was done without any indwelling catheter after ruling out any outlet obstruction. There was no leak of urine in the post operative period in any of the patients. The three layered water-tight closure of the bladder in the absence of outlet obstruction facilitated early ambulation of the child, decreased the morbidity, hospital stay and expenditure.

ABSTRACT: Duplications of the alimentary tract are rare. Foregut duplications with infradiaphragmatic extensions are very rare. We are reporting 3 cases of thoraco-abdominal duplication cysts, each of which had its own mode of presentation. One child with recurrent attacks of respiratory tract infections was treated as loculated empyema on the right side of the chest, and was subsequently referred for decortication. The 2nd child presented with acute respiratory distress. The 3rd child was diagnosed as thoracic cyst by antenatal ultrasonogram. This child was referred to us in the neonatal period for further management. Each case was a therapeutic challenge in its own way. Two cases were operated of which one expired.

ABSTRACT: Although conservation is the hallmark of treatment of bleeding varices due to portal hypertension in children, an occasional patient with life-threatening hemorrhage will need surgical intervention. Non shunting devascularisation procedure as described Sugiura or a modification thereof, would be ideal in handling such difficult situations. A 10 month old male infant who successfully underwent esophagogastric devascularisation through abdominal route is reported.

ABSTRACT: Incomplete exstrophy bladder is a rare entity. Only few cases have been reported and we are reporting such a case in view of its rarity.

ABSTRACT: Incomplete exstrophy bladder is a rare entity. Only few cases have been reported and we are reporting such a case in view of its rarity.