The Uses of Intestine in Urology (A “Gut Reaction,” for W. W. S.)

Abstract

The various uses of intestine in urological surgery make up one of the most fascinating chapters in surgical history because of the many variations in technique and results. There is an immense literature on the subject, and I shall here, chiefly, refer to some of my own contributions, each of which has its own bibliography.

The intestine, readily available to the urological surgeon as a substitute, as an isolated conduit, or as a closed system for urinary diversion, is an important and much used part of urological surgery. Most of the techniques we have learned and later employed were first worked out in the animal surgical laboratories, first in the laboratory of Professor W. W. Scott at the Brady Urological Institute, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, and subsequently here at the University of California, Los Angeles.

In my view, each urological surgeon in training should have the benefit of this important and useful experience. I am grateful to Professor Scott for his thoughtfulness and understanding in providing this opportunity for me. Without it, my urological career would have been ordinary and undistinguished. With it I have had the pleasure and excitement of exploring new horizons, in a new medical school. It is a life experience unparalleled in interest and opportunity.