ISSN : 1302-7123 | E-ISSN : 1308-5123
The Medical Bulletin of Sisli Etfal Hospital - Med Bull Sisli Etfal Hosp: 58 (3)
Volume: 58  Issue: 3 - 2024
1. Front Matter

Pages I - IX

REVIEW ARTICLE
2. Preoperative Preparation in Hyperthyroidism and Surgery in the Hyperthyroid State
Mehmet Uludag, Isik Cetinoglu, Mehmet Taner Unlu, Ozan Caliskan, Nurcihan Aygun
PMID: 39411040  PMCID: PMC11472198  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.97253  Pages 263 - 275
Hyperthyroidism is a clinical condition that develops due to the excessive production and secretion of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland, leading to an elevated concentration of thyroid hormones in tissues. Hyperthyroidism is characterized by low TSH and elevated T3 and/or T4, with the most common causes being Graves' disease, toxic multinodular goiter, and solitary toxic adenoma. T3 is the peripherally active form of thyroid hormone, affecting nearly each tissue and system. The most prominent aspects of hyperthyroidism are related to the cardiovascular system. The treatment of hyperthyroidism includes three options: antithyroid drugs (ATDs), radioactive iodine therapy (RAI), and surgery. Among these treatment modalities, surgery is considered as the most effective one. For patients who are candidates for surgery, preoperative preparation is required to ensure that the thyroidectomy can be performed under optimal conditions. Preoperative preparation should be a combination therapy aimed at preventing the synthesis, secretion, and peripheral effects of thyroid hormones from the thyroid gland. Medications that can be used in this treatment include thionamides, beta-blockers, iodine, corticosteroids, cholestyramine, perchlorate, lithium, and therapeutic plasma exchange. These treatment options can be combined based on the patient's condition. While it is recommended that patients be made euthyroid through preoperative antithyroid treatment to prevent the feared complication, which is the thyroid storm, the supporting evidence is limited. Preoperative treatment does not prevent against thyroid storm whether the patient is euthyroid or hyperthyroid during surgery. Whether surgery should be delayed until biochemical euthyroidism is achieved in hyperthyroid patients remains a topic of debate. Recent studies suggest that thyroidectomy can be safely performed during the hyperthyroid phase by experienced anesthesiologists and surgeons without precipitating thyroid storm or increasing intraoperative and postoperative complications. Although achieving the euthyroid state before surgery is ideal in hyperthyroid patients, it is not always possible. Factors such as allergies to medications, drug side effects, treatment-resistant disease, patient noncompliance, and the urgency of definitive treatment are critical in determining whether hyperthyroidism can be controlled preoperatively. When surgery is necessary in hyperthyroid patients without achieving euthyroidism, the patient's overall condition and comorbidities should be evaluated together by the anesthesiologist, surgeon and endocrinologist, with particular attention to stabilizing the cardiovascular system. We believe that in hyperthyroid patients who are cardiovascularly stable during the hyperthyroid phase, thyroid surgery may not need to be delayed and can be performed safely.

ORIGINAL RESEARCH
3. Postoperative Outcomes and Recurrence Rate in Laparoscopic Tep Inguinal Hernia Repairs Using Partially Absorbable Meshes: A Retrospective Single-Surgeon Study Over A 5-Year Period
Burcak Kabaoglu, Erman Sobutay, Cagri Bilgic
PMID: 39411050  PMCID: PMC11472186  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.33682  Pages 276 - 283
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the postoperative outcomes and recurrence rate in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repairs performed over a 5-year period with totally extraperitoneal (TEP) technique and use of partially absorbable meshes.
Methods: A total of 100 patients (mean(SD, min-max) age: 51.0(14.6, 16-83) years, 91.0% were males) who underwent 150 laparoscopic TEP inguinal hernia repairs (bilateral in 50 patients) with use of the partially absorbable mesh were retrospectively reviewed. Data on patient demographics, hernia characteristics (side, subtype), date of operation, operating time, early and late postoperative complications as well as the recurrence rate were recorded over a 5-year period.
Results: The inguinal hernia was bilateral in 50(50.0%) patients and indirect hernia was noted in 53(53.0%) patients, while lipoma was evident in 17(17.0%) cases. Median operating time was 45.0 min (range, 23.0 to 140.0 min). Overall, seroma occurred in 6(6.0%) patients and treated conservatively, while none of patients developed preperitoneal hematoma, infection or persistent chronic inguinal pain. Recurrence rate was 0.67% (1/150 operations) within a median 30.0 months (range, 2 to 60 months) of postoperative follow up. Bilateral hernia was associated with significantly longer operating time compared to left or right unilateral hernia (median(min-max) 50.0(34.0-140.0) vs. 40.0(23-80) and 40.0(25.0-130.0) min, p<0.01 and p<0.001, respectively). Operating time was positively correlated both with patient age (r=0.240, p=0.017) and BMI (r=0.205, p=0.044).
Conclusion: In conclusion, our findings indicate that laparoscopic TEP inguinal hernia repair with use of the partially absorbable meshes enables a favorable postoperative outcome with minimal early and late postoperative complications and 0.67% recurrence rate over a 5-year period.

4. Struma Ovarii: Single Center Experience
Serkan Erkan, Hakan Yabanoglu, Tevfik Avci, Gulsen Dogan Durdag, Filiz Bolat, Nazim Emrah Kocer
PMID: 39411051  PMCID: PMC11472190  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.90248  Pages 284 - 290
Objective: Struma ovarii (SO) accounts for approximately 1% of all ovarian tumors The objective of our study is to contribute to the treatment algorithm by presenting our clinical experience in a comprehensive case series of patients diagnosed with SO, predominantly characterized by thyroid tissue within a monodermal teratoma.
Materials and Methods: Patients aged 17 years and older who underwent surgery due to ovarian masses and were histopathologically diagnosed with SO between January 2012 and January 2022 were included in the study. The patients' files were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic data, presenting complaints, radiological findings, tumor sizes, laboratory data, surgical procedures performed, pathology reports, additional treatments, and follow-up information were recorded.
Results: The median age of total 19 patients was 41.7 (17-74) years. Among them, malignant struma ovarii was present in 3 patients. In patients with histopathologically confirmed benign struma ovarii, no additional treatment was administered after tumor enucleation. In malignant cases, in addition to unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, total thyroidectomy, radioactive iodine (RAI) ablation, and L-Thyroxine suppression were performed. No mortality occurred during the follow-up period.
Conclusion: Although conservative treatments are considered as acceptable treatment in cases of benign struma ovarii, the management of cases with malignant struma ovarii is controversial. Fertility sparing surgery followed by postoperative adjuvant thyroidectomy and radioactive iodine ablation may be preferred for young women.

5. Coexistence of Thyroglossal Cyst and Thyroid Disease in Adults: Surgical Outcomes From A Single Center
Ceylan Yanar, Isik Cetinoglu, Zerin Sengul, Ozan Caliskan, Mehmet Taner Unlu, Nurcihan Aygun, Mehmet Uludag
PMID: 39411044  PMCID: PMC11472196  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.99390  Pages 291 - 297
Introduction: Thyroglossal cysts (TGCs) usually present during childhood and before the age of 30, however they can also be seen in adults, even in advanced age. Nodular thyroid disease is also common in adults. In the literature, there is an ongoing debate regarding the differences in clinical presentation, gender, and postoperative recurrence of TGC between children and adults. In this study, we aimed to process the data of adult patients who underwent surgery for TGC in our clinic, along with the data on concurrent thyroid disease and thyroid surgery.
Materials and Methods: The data of patients over 18 years old who were operated on for TGC at the General Surgery Clinic of Sisli Hamidiye Etfal Training and Research Hospital between 2018 and 2024 were retrospectively evaluated.
Results: A total of 16 patients with a mean age of 43.94 ± 12.98 (21-67) years, were included in the study (11 F/5 M). The diagnosis of TGC was made in 12 patients (75%) by ultrasonography (USG), in 1 patient (6.25%) by computed tomography, in 1 patient (6.25%) by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and in 2 patients (12.5%) incidentally intraoperatively. 13 patients (81.25%) underwent the Sistrunk procedure, and 3 patients (18.75%) underwent cyst excision. Among the 16 TGC patients, papillary thyroid cancer in the cyst was detected in one patient (6.25%) preoperatively. During preoperative evaluation, nodular thyroid disease was found in 12 patients (75%). Of these, papillary thyroid cancer was detected in 3 patients (18.75%) preoperatively. Of the TGC group, 3 (18.75%) underwent thyroidectomy for thyroid malignancy, and five (31.25%) underwent additional thyroid surgery for nodular thyroid disease. The patients were followed for a mean of 22.63 ± 18.32 months (3-67 months), and no recurrence of TGC was observed during the follow-up period.
Conclusion: In patients with TGC, thyroid diseases and the requirement for thyroidectomy due to benign or malignant thyroid disease is not uncommon. Patients with TGC should be evaluated for thyroid disease before surgical treatment. While the Sistrunk procedure is the standard surgical technique in the treatment of TGC, in adults, if the cyst terminates below the hyoid bone, total cyst excision without removing the central portion of the hyoid bone may be sufficient.

6. Risk Factors for Right Paratracheal Posterolateral Lymph Node Metastasis in Papillary Thyroid Cancer
Ozan Caliskan, Isik Cetinoglu, Nurcihan Aygun, Mehmet Taner Unlu, Mehmet Kostek, Adnan Isgor, Mehmet Uludag
PMID: 39411043  PMCID: PMC11472203  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2023.64507  Pages 298 - 304
Introduction: The incidence of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is increasing, and due to the favorable postoperative survival rates, the extent of surgery should be carefully determined, and complications during the operation should be avoided. The recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) divides the right paratracheal lymph node (RPTLN) into anteromedial and posterolateral compartments due to its anatomical course on the right and left sides of the neck, and the posterolateral lymph nodes are in close proximity to the RLN. Due to the risk of this complication, in this study, we aimed to determine the risk factors for the development of right paratracheal posterolateral lymph node (RPTPLLN) metastasis in PTC.
Materials and Methods: Between 2013 and 2022, patients who underwent central neck dissection (CLND) or central and lateral neck dissection due to the presence of PTC in the right lobe of the thyroid gland were included in the study. Descriptive data, along with preoperative imaging findings and postoperative pathology findings, were retrospectively evaluated.
Findings: The data of 55 patients who met the criteria were statistically analyzed. Of these patients, 24 (43.6%) were male and 31 (56.4%) were female. The mean age was 47.9±17.5 years (range: 16-81). The mean tumor size was 2.17±1.43 cm (range: 0.4-7.0). RPTPLLN was observed in 13 patients (23.6%). Univariate analysis revealed that extrathyroidal extension (p=0.008), lymphovascular invasion (p=0.044), presence of right paratracheal anteromedial (RPTAMLN) metastasis (p=0.001), and presence of left paratracheal metastasis (p=0.049) were statistically significant factors. However, in the multivariate analysis, only the presence of RPTAMLN was determined to be a significant variable (p=0.035).
Conclusion: In patients undergoing surgery for PTC, the risk of metastasis in the RPTPLLN should be considered higher when there is metastasis in the RPTAMLN. We believe that formal dissection of the RPTLN should be considered for optimal evaluation in patients with tumors in the right lobe where central dissection is planned. Posterolateral dissection(PLD) should be routinely performed in the presence of clinical lymph nodes in the RPTAMLN. When a decision cannot be made, PLD may not be performed if the anteromedial tissue is examined with frozen pathology and the result is negative.

7. Predictors of Cervical Lymph Node Metastasis in Patients with Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Larynx
Abdullah Soydan Mahmutoglu, Didem Rifki, Ozdes Mahmutoglu, Fatma Zeynep Arslan, Ozan Ozdemir, Goncagul Arslan Kosargelir, Yesim Karagoz
PMID: 39411042  PMCID: PMC11472188  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.80445  Pages 305 - 311
Objectives: In this retrospective study, we evaluated the effectiveness of the tumor volume, grade and invasion depth in the prediction of cervical lymph node metastasis.
Background: Identification of diagnostic parameters reliably predicting cervical lymph node involvement can be useful in improving the management of laryngeal cancer.
Material and Methods: One hundred and seven patients with squamous cell carcinoma of larynx and who underwent surgery were assessed retrospectively. Age, sex, Tumor-Node-Metastasis (TNM) stage, grade, invasion depth and tomography(CT) volume of the tumors were analysed. The association between these parameters and cervical lymph node metastasis was determined.
Results: Thirty two patients (%29.91) had positive cervical lymph nodes. Lymph node metastasis is detected in 13 (46.43%) poorly differentiated tumors, and in 19 (24.05%) moderate-well differentiated tumors. Mean volume was 2.15±0.14 cc in lymph node negative patients and 2.97±1.05 cc in lymph node positive patients. Mean invasion depth was 10.1±0.87 mm in lymph node negative patients and in 11.3±1.05 mm lymph node positive patients. The tumor grade and volume predicted successfully lymph node metastasis in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx, however invasion depth were not associated with nodal metastasis (p=0.047, p=0.0022, p=0.916, respectively)
Conclusion: The tumor grade and volume can predicted cervical lymph node metastasis in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx, whereas the depth of invasion did not. Calculation of the tumor volume radiologically can help predict lymph node metastasis by minimizing the variability in measurements such as the depth of invasion performed by pathologists.

8. Craniomaxillofacial Surgery with Computer-generated Three-dimensional Solid Models
Atilla Adnan Eyuboglu, Mustafa Tonguc Isken, Volkan Etus, Reha Yavuzer, Cenk Sen, Deniz Iscen, Ahmet Demir
PMID: 39411035  PMCID: PMC11472197  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.13844  Pages 312 - 318
OBJECTIVE: Restoring complex craniofacial deformities presents numerous challenges. Recent years have seen the development of new surgical techniques aimed at improving operation quality and reducing difficulty. However, designing the reduction volume for the affected region and achieving precise contouring remain difficult tasks. The use of three-dimensional (3D) solid models can provide significant assistance at all stages of the operations. This study aimed to investigate the validity of prototype 3D solid models for complex craniofacial operations.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Simulated 3D models of the patients were used. Conventional surgical instruments were employed for the planning of the operations. Patients had follow-up periods ranged from 6 to 18 months.
RESULTS: Operations have been planned and performed using three-dimensional solid models. Intraoperative steps were executed as simulated during planning. No major complications were developed. All bone and soft-tissue reconstructions healed without major infection.
CONCLUSION: Stereolithographic models provide: 1) a better understanding of anatomy, 2) presurgical simulation, 3) intraoperative accuracy in lesion localization, 4) accurate fabrication of implants, and 5) improved education for trainees. An accurate method for intraoperative navigation and preoperative planning is clearly useful. This technology offers a direct representation of the patient's anatomy through computer reconstruction, allowing for the efficient and precise transfer of information in complex facial restorative procedures.

9. Iatrogenic Vascular Injuries in Elective Abdominal and Pelvic Surgery Patients: Retrospective, Single Center, 30-Day Results
Mehmet Ali Yesiltas, Yasar Gokkurt, Serkan Ketenciler, Cihan Yucel, Melek Yilmaz, Ilhan Ozgol, Mehmet Kursat Kurt, Seran Gulbudak
PMID: 39411032  PMCID: PMC11472199  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.19971  Pages 319 - 324
INTRODUCTION: Although rare, vascular injuries are common in elective abdominal or pelvic surgeries. When encountered, any problem in the relevant artery/vein (occlusion, stenosis, dissection, pseudoaneurysm or arteriovenous fistula) is associated with mortality and morbidity in both the short and long term. We aimed to share our treatment approach and short-term results for vascular injuries in elective surgery.
METHODS: In this study, the clinical data of patients who underwent elective abdominal and pelvic surgery performed by a vascular surgeon and who sustained iatrogenic vascular injury between January 2018 and July 2023 were retrospectively examined. All patients with no iatrogenic vascular injuries were excluded from the study.
RESULTS: In the present study, a total of 72 patients had iatrogenic vascular injuries and underwent vascular surgery. The average age of the patients was 50.8 ± 14.6 years. Twenty-eight (38.8%) of the patients were male, and 44 (61.1%) were female. Iatrogenic vascular injury occurred in 21 (29.2%) patients who underwent urologic surgical interventions, 35 (48.6%) who underwent gynecologic surgical treatments, and 16 (22.2%) who underwent abdominal surgeries. Twenty-nine patients had isolated arterial injuries, 37 patients had isolated venous injuries, and 6 patients had both arterial and vein injuries. Embolectomy was performed in 24 patients. Primary sutures were applied in 22 patients, end-to-end anastomosis with a vein graft was performed in 13 patients, and end-to-end anastomosis with Dacron/PTFE was performed in 11 patients. In 10 patients, native vein end-to-end anastomosis was performed. During the 30-day follow-up period, 3 patients experienced arterial occlusion, and 2 patients experienced venous thrombosis. There was no mortality in the hospital or during the 30-day follow-up period.
CONCLUSION: Vascular injuries rarely occur in elective abdominal and pelvic surgeries. However, when they happen, they are fatal. For this reason, preoperative, multidisciplinary evaluation will minimize the risk of vascular complications, especially in patients requiring mass excision and lymph node dissection with close vascular proximity.

10. Comparative Analysis of Pain and Duration in Panretinal Photocoagulation: Navilas Laser versus Conventional Laser in Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Murat Karapapak, Ece Ozal, Serhat Ermis, Serkan Guler, Sadik Altan Ozal
PMID: 39411046  PMCID: PMC11472189  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.81236  Pages 325 - 331
Objective: To compare the pain perception and treatment duration in patients undergoing panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) for high-risk proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) using Navilas laser versus conventional laser.
Methods: A study was conducted involving 40 patients with bilateral high-risk PDR. Each patient underwent PRP with conventional laser in one eye and Navilas laser in the other. Laser parameters, including spot size and pulse duration were standardized. Pain perception was evaluated using Verbal Rating Scale (VRS) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS).
Results: The Navilas and conventional laser groups showed no significant differences in baseline visual acuity, lens status, intraocular pressure, cup-to-disc ratio, and cystoid macular edema. The duration of laser treatment was significantly shorter with Navilas laser group (517.3±48.78 second, p<0.001). Pain scores (VAS and VRS) were significantly lower in the Navilas laser group (p<0.001, p=0.002 respectively) than conventional laser group. There was no correlation between VAS and VRS scores and laser time in both the Navilas and conventional laser groups (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Utilizing the Navilas laser for PRP in PDR patients offers advantages over conventional lasers, including reduced pain and expedited procedures. These findings contribute valuable insights for optimizing clinical decisions, potentially enhancing patient compliance and minimizing the risk of visual deterioration in diabetic retinopathy treatment.

11. In the Treatment of Lower Pole Kidney Stones Between 1-2 cm in Children, Which is the Best Approach? Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery or Mini Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy
Yusuf Arikan, Enes Dumanli, Yusuf Alper Kara, Ali Kumcu, Mehmet Zeynel Keskin, Ulas Can Erdogan
PMID: 39411045  PMCID: PMC11472195  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.49225  Pages 332 - 338
Objective: Kidney stones are treated with many methods, but there is no consensus on which method should be preferred for 1-2 cm lower renal stones. In our study, we aimed to investigate the results of mini (Percutaneous Nephrolitotomy) PCNL and (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) RIRS in lower renal pole 1-2 cm stones.
Material-Methods: Twenty-four Mini PCNL and 55 RIRS patients were included in the study. Demographic data of the patients and information about stones on Non-Computed Tomography (NCCT) were recorded. Stone free status (SFR), need for additional treatment and complications of both methods were compared.
Results: Operative time was 55.2±20.8 min in Mini PCNL and 70.7±36.5 min in RIRS, which was statistically significantly lower (p=0.002). Length of hospital stay was 2.4 ± 1.5 days in the Mini PCNL and 1.3 ± 0.7 days in the RIRS, which was statistically significantly longer (p=0.011). In the postoperative 1st month and 3rd month stone-free rates (SFR) was higher in the mini PCNL group. While the 1st month SFR was 91.6% and 54.5%, the 3rd month stone-free rates were 95.8% vs 69.1%, respectively (p<0.001). The need for re-treatment was statistically lower in the mini PCNL group (p<0.001). In terms of complications, the incidence of complications was 16.6% (pain in 2 patients, fever in 1 patients, need for blood transfusion in 1 patient) in the mini PCNL group and 21.8% (pain in 2 patients, fever in 8 patients, sepsis in 2 patients) in the RIRS group. There was a significant difference between the two groups (p=0.008).
Conclusion: Mini PCNL have a higher SFR, less need for re-treatment and fewer complications.

12. Can Laryngeal Mask Airway be the First Choice for Tracheal Stenosis Surgery? A Historical Cohort Study
Ozal Adiyeke, Onur Sarban, Ergun Mendes, Taner Abdullah, Ali Kahvecioglu, Aynur Bas, Hasan Akin, Funda Gumus Ozcan
PMID: 39411049  PMCID: PMC11472192  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.99249  Pages 339 - 345
Objective: To compare the usage of laryngeal mask airway (LMA) and orotracheal intubation (OTI), which are separate airway management methods in tracheal reconstruction surgeries, in terms of perioperative management, mortality, and morbidity.
Methods: Adult patients who underwent tracheal reconstruction surgery between June 2020 and June 2022 were included in the study, retrospectively. Patients with lost data or primary tracheal malignancy were excluded. Patients who underwent tracheal reconstruction were divided into two groups: LMA and OTI.
Results: Of a total of 57 included patients, the OTI and LMA groups had 30 (52.63%) and 27 patients (47.37%), respectively. The rate of intubated transfer to the intensive care unit and the length of stay in the intensive care unit were significantly higher in the OTI group (p=0. 014, p=0. 031) than those of the LMA group; further, in tracheal cultures, reproduction was also significantly higher in the OTI group (23.33%) (p=0. 007). The postoperative mortality rates were similar in both groups.
Conclusion: Since the absence of tension in end-to-end anastomosis of the trachea is vital for successful surgery, the LMA application (which has no tracheal contact) can be considered superior to OTI. In this study, LMA was successfully applied in all patients. Considering that the aim of anesthesia management should be to provide adequate oxygenation and normocarbia with minimally invasive intervention, we suggest airway management using LMA as the first option for tracheal reconstruction surgery because of the advantages described in this study.

13. Prognostic Nutritional Index as a New Prediction Tool for All-Cause Mortality in Patients with Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia Undergoing Endovascular Therapy
Onur Erdogan, Tugba Erdogan, Cafer Panc, Omer Tasbulak, Mehmet Altunova, Ahmet Arif Yalcin, Mehmet Erturk
PMID: 39411041  PMCID: PMC11472200  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.70094  Pages 346 - 353
Background: Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia (CLTI) represents a complex manifestation of peripheral artery disease distinguished by symptoms such as ischemic rest pain, non-healing ulcers on the lower limb or foot, and the development of gangrene. CLTI is associated with a high risk of limb amputation, decreased quality of life, and substantial morbidity and mortality. The Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI), which is calculated using albumin and lymphocyte levels, reflects the immunological and nutritional status. The objective of this study was to investigate the correlation between PNI levels and mortality among patients diagnosed with CLTI who underwent endovascular therapy.
Methods: Individuals diagnosed with CLTI who received endovascular therapy below the knee in our tertiary care center were enrolled in this retrospective study. The patients were divided into two groups: survivors and non-survivors. Logistic regression analyses were performed to detect independent predictors of mortality and using Cox regression model, we assesed the relationship between PNI and mortality. Survival curves were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method.
Results: The study comprised 113 patients diagnosed with PAD who underwent EVT. The non-survivor group (42 patients) was older (62.9±10.9 vs. 67.7±9.9, p: 0.045) and had a higher prevalence of chronic renal failure (22.5% vs. 42.9%, p: 0.023) and congestive heart failure (8.5% vs. 21.4%, p: 0.049) than the survivor group (71 patients). The median PNI value was lower in the non-survivor group than in the survivor group (35.9±5 vs 38.2±4.4, p: 0.012). Cox regression analyses showed that Low PNI associated with increased mortality (HR=0.931, CI= 0.872-0.995, P=0.035). PNI cut-off of 37.009 showed 64.3 % sensitivity, 64.8 % specificity, and AUC of 0.642 for predicting all-cause mortality. Kaplan-Meier analysis supported higher PNI correlating with better survival.
Conclusion: The Prognostic Nutritional Index was independently associated with mortality among individuals diagnosed with Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia.

14. An Analytical Comparison of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Patients Manifested with or without Graves' Disease
Zeynel Abidin Sayiner, Yagmur Yatkin Keles, Sadettin Ozturk, Ersin Akarsu
PMID: 39411034  PMCID: PMC11472202  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.86300  Pages 354 - 358
Objective: There is still no clear relationship between the presence of Graves' disease (GD) and the development of papillary thyroid carcinoma. The aim of this study was to compare the clinicopathologic features of patients diagnosed with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) with thyroid nodules and GD and patients with PTC with thyroid nodules but without autoimmune thyroid disease.
Methods: The study designed as retrospective manner and included a cohort of 239 patients with PTC who underwent total thyroidectomy. Age at diagnosis, disease stage, PTC subtypes, tumor size, radioactive iodine use, nodule ultrasonographic features, and risk of PTC recurrence were compared between patients with and without GD.
Results: Of 239 patients, 99 (41%) had GD, while 140 patients (without autoimmune thyroid disease) had only PTC. The tumor diameter was significantly smaller in the group with PTC + GD (1.45 ± 1.28 cm vs 1.81 ± 1.34 cm, p < 0.05). Significantly lower multifocal involvement rates were observed in the PTC + GD group compared to PTC only group (p < 0.05). The prevalence of the classic papillary thyroid carcinoma subtype was higher in patients without autoimmune thyroid disease (39% vs. 25.7%, p<0.05). Ultrasonographic features of nodules with GD and PTC do not have different characteristics from those of nodules with PTC without GD.
Conclusion: The risk of structural recurrence at the time of diagnosis appears to be similar when PTC is accompanied by GD as compared to PTC alone. Furthermore, the presence of smaller tumor sizes and less multifocality in GD-PTC coexistence may indicate a better prognosis.

15. Comparison of Vitamin D, B12, and Folic Acid Levels According to Attack Frequency in Familial Mediterranean Fever Cases
Busra Tetik Dincer, Gul Ozcelik, Nafiye Urganci
PMID: 39411037  PMCID: PMC11472187  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.86461  Pages 359 - 362
BACKGROUND: Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an autoinflammatory disease more commonly observed in the Eastern Mediterranean region. Studies have shown that inflammatory processes may decrease vitamin D, vitamin B12 and folate levels, but there is no clear data on the effect of attack frequency on these levels. Our study aimed to evaluate the effect of FMF attack frequency on vitamin levels.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: FMF patients aged between 4-18 years were considered as the study group, while healthy children who had vitamin levels during the same period were considered as the control group. The study group was further subgrouped according to the number of attacks. Those experiencing 2 or fewer attacks per year are classified as the attack group, while those experiencing 6 or more attacks per year are classified as the frequent attack group.
RESULTS: A total of 494 subjects were included. The study group was composed of 333 FMF patients,108 of them in the attack group and 225 in the frequent attack group. Control group included 161 children. The median and interquartile range (IQR: P25-75) in the frequent attack, attack, and control groups for 25(OH)D levels were 14.3 (9.57-18.9), 14.85 (10.12-21.77), and 14.95 (9.92-20.12) ng/ml, for B12 levels were 320 (238-415), 328 (250.25-439.25), and 373 (273.75-519.25) pg/ml, and for folate levels were 6 (5.13-8.12), 6.8 (5.36-8.9), and 7 (5.3-9.9) ng/ml, respectively. There is no significant difference between groups for 25(OH)D and folate (p=0.436 and p=0.25, respectively). Vitamin B12 levels are significantly lower in study group (p=0.001) but there is no difference according to attack frequency (p=0.92).
CONCLUSION: There is no effect of attack frequency on 25(OH)D, vitamin B12 and folate levels. The fact that vitamin B12 levels are within normal limits in patients with FMF may be explained by the adequate dietary habits of these patients.

16. Can Galanin Be Used as a Marker of Microvascular Dysfunction in Prehypertensives?
Muhammed Esad Cekin, Seref Kul, Gonul Aciksari, Emrah Erdal, Fatma Betul Ozcan, Mustafa Caliskan
PMID: 39411048  PMCID: PMC11472185  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.64188  Pages 363 - 370
Objective: Coronary microvascular dysfunction is present in large percentage of the population, and it has been shown to have a pathological and prognostic role in many conditions. Therefore, early detection of microvascular dysfunction is important, especially in selected populations. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of galanin with coronary flow reserve (CFR) in prehypertensive individuals to determine whether it can be used as a marker to detect microvascular dysfunction.
Methods: A total of 100 participants, 50 prehypertensive and 50 normotensive were included in this prospective study. Serum galanin levels were measured and CFR were calculated by detailed transthoracic echocardiography.
Results: CFR was significantly lower in the prehypertensive group (p<0.001). Also galanin values were numerically lower in the prehypertensive group, but the difference between the groups did not reach statistical significance (p=0.062). There was no significant correlation between CFR and galanin (r=-0.161 p=0.11)
Conclusion: Lower CFR values in prehypertensives suggest that, microvascular dysfunction starts above normotensive values even if hypertension not develop. The reason why low galanin levels were not statistically significant in prehypertensives and no correlation was found between Galanin and CFR may be due to the small study population. Relationship between galanin, prehypertension and microvascular dysfunction will become clearer if large-scale population studies are carried out.

17. The Role of Dynamic Changes in Hematologic and Biochemical Parameters in Predicting Mortality in Covid-19 Patients
Emine Celik Tellioglu, Ahsen Oncul, Husrev Diktas, Ceren Atasoy Tahtasakal, Elif Aktas, Irem Genc Yaman, Dilek Yildiz Sevgi, Ilyas Dokmetas
PMID: 39411033  PMCID: PMC11472194  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.26096  Pages 371 - 380
Objectives: The role of hematologic, inflammatory and biochemical parameters as biomarkers, their role in identifying risky patients in the early stage and their role in prognosis in COVID-19 Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were investigated.
Method: The study included patients who were hospitalized and followed up with a prediagnosis of COVID-19 in the first wave in our country at the XXXXXX. Demographic and clinical characteristics as well as complete blood count, C reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), fibrinogen (FIB), ferritin, albumin (ALB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels on admission, third, seventh and 14th days were analyzed. Patients were grouped and compared according to the occurrence of death during hospital follow-up. Variables considered significant on mortality were analyzed with univariate and multivariate logistic regression models.
Results: The study was conducted with 485 patients, 273 (56.3%) males and 212 (43.72%) females. The mean age of the patients was 58±16.2 years, and 71% were in the mild-moderate and 29% in the severe-critical disease group. Disease severity, the need for intensive care unit (ICU) follow-up, and the development of death were positively correlated with age, comorbidity, neutrophil (NE), leukocyte, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), PCT, CRP, ferritin, LDH values, and negatively correlated with lymphocyte (LE), ALB and hemoglobin (HGB) values. In multivariate analysis, elevated PCT at hospital admission (OR: 6.96 [1.63;39.65]), LDH ≥ 352U/L (OR: 4.35 [1.23;16.61]), LE < 0.810 × 109/L (OR: 3.0 [1.16;7.85]) and advanced age (OR: 1.08 [1.03;1.14]) were independently associated with in-hospital death. In hemogram and acute phase reactant monitoring, PCT, CRP and LDH were the most valuable markers for predicting death, respectively (third-day AUC: 0.90;0.83;0.83 and seventh-day AUC: 0.95;0.90;0.89, respectively).
Conclusion: In our study, leukocytes, lymphocytes, NLR, CRP, PCT, ferritin, albumin and LDH at admission were valuable in predicting poor prognosis. In addition, it was determined that increases in PCT, LDH and CRP during follow-up could be used to predict in-hospital death and to identify patients requiring close follow-up.

18. Sensitivity of Clock Drawing Test Alone to Screen for Cognitive Impairment in Patients with Parkinson's Disease
Nazli Durmaz Celik, Aydan Topal, Muge Kuzu Kumcu, Serhat Ozkan, Sabiha Tezcan Aydemir
PMID: 39411036  PMCID: PMC11472191  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.94758  Pages 381 - 388
Objective: Cognitive impairment is a prevalent non-motor symptom of Parkinson's Disease (PD), significantly impacting patient quality of life. The Clock Drawing Test (CDT) evaluates cognitive abilities, including planning, organization, and executive functions such as attention, memory, and visuospatial skills. This study aimed to determine the sensitivity of the CDT in diagnosing cognitive impairment in PD.,
Method: We reviewed the records of 44 PD patients (16 female, 28 male) diagnosed with dementia (30 patients) or mild cognitive impairment (14 patients) between 2018 and 2022. These patients were compared to 106 visitors to the neurological outpatient clinic, serving as a control group. A separate researcher assessed the patients' CDT scores, maintaining confidentiality of all other patient data except age and education level.
Results: Among the 44 PD patients, two with mild cognitive impairment were rated as normal on usual, while all PD dementia cases were identified solely through the CDT. In the healthy control group, 72 out of 106 individuals reported no cognitive complaints, whereas 34 individuals (32.1%) reported cognitive complaints as assessed by a blind investigator. The CDT demonstrated a positive predictive value of 55.3% and a negative predictive value of 97.3%. Sensitivity was calculated at 95.5%, and specificity was 67.9%.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that the CDT is sensitive in detecting cognitive impairment in PD patients with cognitive deficits. While the CDT serves as an effective rapid screening tool, high scores indicate the absence of cognitive impairment, but low scores alone are insufficient for a definitive diagnosis of dementia. Comprehensive neurological evaluation and detailed cognitive assessment remain essential for confirming dementia diagnoses.

19. Evaluation of Oral Glucose Tolerance Test Results in Children with Cystic Fibrosis
Asli Bestas, Edip Unal, Amine Aktar Karakaya, Nurcan Beyazit, Suat Savas, Velat Sen
PMID: 39411039  PMCID: PMC11472201  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.65983  Pages 389 - 394
Aim: Current guidelines suggest that patients with CF, who are over the age of 10, should be annually evaluated with OGTT. In this study, it was aimed to evaluate the OGTT results in patients above the age of 10, who were followed up in our center with the diagnosis of Cystic fibrosis (CF).
Materials and Methods: In the study, 46 patients with CF at the age of 10 and above, who underwent OGTT were included. Data such as gender, age at diagnosis, anthropometric measurements, lung function(FEV1 %) and the OGTT results were obtained. In the analysis, the patient groups with normal glucose tolerance(NGT) and abnormal glucose tolerance(AGT) were compared.
Results: NGT was found in 37(80.4%) of the patients, and AGT was found in 9(19.5%) of the patients. The median fasting glucose levels of the patients in the NGT group and the mean glucose levels measured at 120 minutes in the OGTT were found to be lower compared to the patients in the AGT group(p<0.005). Although the mean body weight, height, VKİ-SDS, FEV1in the AGT group were found to be lower than the patients in the NGT group, the difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05).
Conclusion: We detected AGT in approximately in 1 out of 5 patients with CF who were at the age of 10 and above. Almost half (44.4%) of the patients with AGT were found to have normal fasting blood glucose levels. Therefore, Cystic fibrosis-related diabetes screening should be performed with OGTT instead of fasting blood glucose in patients with CF.

CASE REPORT
20. Successful Surgical Management of Severe Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Obstruction Caused by Cardiac Rhabdomyoma in a Neonate
Baburhan Ozbek, Ayhan Gunes, Kenan Ozturker, Omer Faruk Savluk, Deniz Cevirme, Eylem Tuncer
PMID: 39411047  PMCID: PMC11472193  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.50460  Pages 395 - 397
Cardiac rhabdomyoma is the most common primary cardiac tumour in infants and can be diagnosed by fetal echocardiography. This benign tumour can be found in various locations within the heart, including the left ventricle, right ventricle, or septum, and is typically multiple. While spontaneous regression may occur, haemodynamic disorders, arrhythmias, and sudden death have also been reported. Surgical treatment is recommended for life-threatening ventricular outflow tract stenosis, heart failure, and arrhythmias. This case report presents a successful surgical treatment approach in a newborn with rhabdomyoma that caused severe left ventricular outflow tract stenosis.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR
21. Hemangioma-Like Lesions with an Anemic Halo: Eruptive Pseudoangiomatosis
Pinar Ozdemir Cetinkaya, Semih Arslan, Ilknur Kivanc Altunay, Asli Aksu Cerman, Deniz Tuncel, Birgul Ozkesici Kurt
PMID: 39411038  PMCID: PMC11472184  doi: 10.14744/SEMB.2024.46578  Pages 398 - 400

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