A historical look at research in hyperphosphataemia of chronic kidney disease over the last 40 years shows remarkable advances in our understanding of this abnormality and in the technology used to manage it. Phosphate binders, which have become a mainstay in the management of hyperphosphataemia, have evolved from the early use of aluminium gels to calcium salts, to novel, non-absorbed, aluminium-free, calcium-free agents such as sevelamer hydrochloride, and to magnesium-, iron-, and lanthanum-based compounds. With recent advances, clinical management of this complication of chronic renal disease is evolving from adequate care to optimal care, such that new standards in phosphorous management are being set, and various parameters of patient care are being integrated to optimize outcomes and minimize side effects. This paper provides a historical view of the clinical management of hyperphosphataemia, and looks to advances in treatment that are changing the course of renal bone disease management.