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See What You Missed at Cincinnati Children’s 2024 Pediatric Urology Workshop

The Future of Pediatric Urology: Insights from Cincinnati Children’s 2024 Workshop

The 2024 Pediatric Urology Workshop attracted pediatric urology professionals—fellows and experienced specialists alike—interested in sharpening their skills in managing complex urological problems in children. Cincinnati Children’s designed this annual educational event to advance pediatric urology practice and help professionals deepen their expertise. It's built on the core values of exploring complex topics, fostering meaningful conversations and keeping them accessible.

The workshop took place March 10–12 at the Westin Hotel in Cincinnati and offered a wide variety of activities. Participants attended informative presentations, engaged in interactive discussions, facilitated case reviews—a hallmark of the workshop—and enhanced their professional development. There were also numerous opportunities for socialization with colleagues and networking.

From the Basics to Emerging Areas of Interest

The workshop covered a wide range of topics critical to the field. Designed to equip fellows with the latest advancements in pediatric urology, the conference explored areas such as urodynamics, vesicoureteral reflux management and reconstructive procedures like penile reconstruction.

Fellows gained exposure to emerging areas of interest covering a wide range of urological conditions. Topics included managing gynecological conditions that patients might present with, pediatric renal neoplasms and complex congenital genitourinary malformations, as well as preparing a child for a kidney transplant.

The learning extended beyond the purely technical. Pediatric urologist Thomas Kolon, MD, of Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, who is also a church deacon, presented a lecture exploring the often-overlooked integration of faith in medicine. This prompted discussions on the importance of spirituality in the practice of medicine.

Kate Kraft, MD, from the University of Michigan, offered practical and innovative training techniques for the next generation of physicians. Another session stressed the importance of teamwork in driving research and improving patient care.

The workshop also featured a series of special sessions, including a breakout session on Sunday morning specifically for fellows. This session aimed to assist them as they transition from trainee to faculty, with discussions focused on home buying, personal finances and career development.

Honoring a Significant Achievement

Brian VanderBrink, MD, was honored as the first recipient of the Complex Genitourinary Surgery Endowed Chair in Pediatric Urology at Cincinnati Children’s. This prestigious award reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence in patient care.

This honor recognizes VanderBrink's achievements and provides resources to support patients and their families. It also strengthens our capabilities in clinical research, allowing us to focus on improving clinical outcomes.

More Than Just Education

The Pediatric Urology Workshop wasn't just an educational event. Participants learned new information, developed their professional skills and built a community with other specialists who all share a dedication to caring for children with complex urological conditions. Social activities included a welcome cocktail on Friday evening and a gala dinner on Saturday. These gatherings offered excellent chances to network and hold informal discussions.

If you weren’t able to join us this year, we hope you’ll consider attending in 2025. The 2025 workshop is scheduled for March 7–9. Check your inbox for an invitation in the coming months.

Thank you to all who attended and contributed to the success of this year's workshop. We look forward to continuing our mission of excellence in pediatric urology and hope to see even more of our colleagues at next year’s event.

To learn more, contact Pediatric Urology Division Director Pramod Reddy, MD, via email at Pramod.Reddy@cchmc.org.

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