47th Annual Meeting of the Society for Research into Hydrocephalus and Spina Bifida

Despite the double threat of war in the Middle East, and the global SARS epidemic, the 47th Annual Meeting of the Society for Research into Hydrocephalus and Spina Bifida was held in Baltimore, Maryland, ably hosted by Dr. Steve Kinsman of the Division of Pediatric Neurology of the University of Maryland. America's east coast offered us extremes of weather from tropical temperature and humidity to a rainstorm of monsoon proportions. Despite this, delegates were able to enjoy exploring Baltimore, a city which played an important role during the American War of Independence, and subsequently as an important sea port (Fig. [1]).

Fig. 1 USS Constellation moored in Baltimore's Inner Harbor.

The Annual General Meeting of the society was held in Davidge Hall, University of Maryland. Davidge Hall was named after one of the founders of the University Medical School, and was built in 1812. It is the oldest medical education building in the United States.

For the annual society outing, delegates enjoyed a tour of the city of Baltimore, both on land and in the inner harbor. This was accomplished on “ducks” - amphibious vehicles equally at home on water as on land. The commentary by the drivers was very entertaining, and the audience participation element enabled many of us to briefly revisit our childhood.

The Annual Dinner was held in Westminster Hall. This building occupies the site of an old churchyard, which contains the grave of Edgar Allan Poe. Delegates were able to enjoy a tour of the vaults as well as the excellent food and entertainment.

Three themes emerged from the scientific sessions. Firstly we had an update on the progress of the controlled trial of fetal surgery for spina bifida being carried out in three centers in the United States. This is an important study for the society. Delegates were impressed with the careful design of the study and look forward to results as they emerge.

A number of sessions were devoted to long-term outcomes in patients with spina bifida. The papers focussed on physical development, and looked in particular at patients' abilities to cope with their environment, with special interest in adapting to adolescence. This is an important aspect of the work, and helps to inform both individuals and society of the needs of this group of patients.

As in previous years, a great deal of scientific research into hydrocephalus was presented. Delegates much enjoyed a carefully argued overview of the up-to-date position and the possible future developments in the field from Jogi Pattisapu.

The president's address, entitled “A Foot in Two Camps”, was given by Carys Bannister. Carys described the importance of the relationship between clinical medicine and laboratory research. These two strands of practice are totally interdependent, and each relies heavily on the other. Following the president's address, the chain of office was handed over to the Society's new president, Carole Sobkowiak.

Finally, Ray Fitzgerald invited delegates to the 48th Annual Meeting of the Society which will be in Dublin, Ireland, on 23rd to 26th June 2004.

PS: The authors wish to point out that the views expressed in this journal may not always reflect those of the Editors or Publishing House.