In this book we have expert urologists and gynaecologists on the two sides of the Atlantic working together with a common interest, the inadequate female urethra. What makes this volume so valuable is that it is not restricted to one speciality or one cult, but bravely (and systematically) presents established principles and practice. Not only is the current knowledge of the anatomy and function of the continence mech anisms defined by experts carefully selected by the two authorities in the field, but this infor mation is directly applied to clinical problems for the reader to use in the care of patients. Because the basics are presented first, and followed by the methods of diagnosis, the sec tions describing each form of treatment, whether medical or surgical, are set on rational bases. These are not cookbook directions. This background is especially valuable because the incontinent female usually has a complicated disorder, each case being different, so that the responsible gynaecologists or urologists must apply as much understanding as technique if their efforts are to achieve dryness. The clear descriptions and illustrations in this book, then, act as guides as much as directives. This second edition builds on the success of the first. All of us trying to help these unfortu nate women will do more for them from having this new edition at hand."

Urinary incontinence is a humiliating disability and a common problem in gynaecological clinics. In some centres specialised facilities are avail able for its investigation and treatment but in most hospitals the general gynaecologist has to manage this difficult condition. For both generalist and subspecialist it is timely to summarise advances in our knowledge of normal and abnormal micturition. Since 1973 the Royal College of Obstetrician's and Gynaecologists, through its Scientific Advisory Committee, has convened Study Groups on important growth areas in our specialty. The College invites an international panel of leading researchers to participate in a workshop, allowing time for in-depth discussion as well as the presentation of papers. It is hoped that this will produce not only an up-to-date sum mary of current knowledge but also a useful interaction between indi viduals and between specialties. This book is the result of the 21st Study Group, which was held in October 1989. The participants included urological and colorectal surgeons and a neurologist, as well as scientists and gynaecologists. The meeting began with sessions on basic science and advances in the investigation of the lower urinary tract, then covered voiding diffi culties, genuine stress incontinence and detrusor instability, before a final session on the relationship between urinary incontinence and ali mentary tract problems. The discussions formed an essential part of the meeting, and it is hoped that the lightly edited versions reproduced here will convey to the reader the stimulating atmosphere of the Study Group.

For a long time I have felt that the present gynaecological training for registrars lacked familiarisation and understanding of the basic principles of surgery. This is due to several factors. Firstly, the historical separation of gynaecology from general surgery which led to our development as an independent speciality (and which Victor Bonney foretold to our detriment when he opposed the formation of the College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists as a separate body from the College of Surgeons). Secondly, a vast improvement in medical management of many gynaecological conditions has made surgical practice dull and an unquestioning daily routine with little or no surgical instruction for many junior staff. Thirdly, the arrival of subspecialisation has exacerbated this, as complicated surgery may be referred out by the general gynaecologist. Finally, the trend in further education towards writing an MD rather than taking an FRCS degree. The arguments for and against were set out in an editorial in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (1983), later taken to task in the ensuing correspondence. That editorial. together with the difficulty in finding up-to-date articles on surgical principles in one volume, were the catalysts for this book. With the help of colleagues from other disciplines, I have attempted to present recent advances side-by-side with modern-day gynaecological practice.