BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the histopathological and biochemical effects of ketamine on penile tissues following ischemia-reperfusion injury induced by priapism.
METHODS: Twenty-four male rats were randomized into three groups. Group 1 served as the control group. Group 2 underwent the priapism model to induce ischemia-reperfusion injury. Group 3, the treatment group, experienced a similar ischemia-reperfusion model as Group 2; additionally, 50 mg/kg of ketamine was administered intraperitoneally just before reperfusion. Blood biochemical analyses and penile histopathological evaluations were performed.
RESULTS: In Group 3, significant improvements were observed in all histopathological scores, including desquamation, edema, inflammation, and vasocongestion compared to Group 2 (p<0.001). Blood biochemical analyses showed that the malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were recorded as 10 in Group 2, with a significant decrease in Group 3 (p=0.013). Similarly, proinflammatory cytokine levels, including interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), were found to be suppressed in Group 3 compared to Group 2 (p=0.003, p=0.022, and p=0.028, respectively). Antioxidant enzyme activities, such as glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), were higher in Group 3 compared to Group 2 (p=0.016 and p=0.024, respec-tively).
CONCLUSION: Ketamine is an effective anesthetic agent in alleviating the effects of penile ischemia-reperfusion injury.

BACKGROUND: Previous research has shown that levobupivacaine is as effective as bupivacaine but carries a lower risk of cardiac and central nervous system toxicity. This study explores whether levobupivacaine and bupivacaine are preferable for all patients, includ-ing those with comorbidities, particularly focusing on their effects on colonic anastomosis. The primary objective is to examine the influence of levobupivacaine and bupivacaine on colonic anastomosis. Additionally, the study will assess their impact on wound healing and their anti-adhesive properties.
METHODS: Conducted between July 28, 2022, to August 4, 2022, at the Hamidiye Animal Experiments Laboratory, this study was approved by the University Science Health, Hamidiye Animal Experiments Local Ethics Committee. This study was conducted using 21 male Sprague rats aged 16-20 weeks. The rats were allocated into three equal groups of seven each: Group C: pre-incisional isotonic; Group B: pre-incisional bupivacaine; and Group L: pre-incisional levobupivacaine. Macroscopic adhesion scores (MAS) were recorded during laparotomy and tissue samples were taken for histopathological examination and hydroxyproline levels measurement. Wound tensile strength along the middle incision line and anastomotic burst pressure were also assessed.
RESULTS: MAS was statistically significantly lower in Groups B and L compared to Group C (p<0.001). The wound histopathology score (WHS) was significantly higher in Group L than in Group B (p=0.021). Colon histopathology scores (CHSs) were also signifi-cantly higher in Group L compared to Group C (p=0.011).
CONCLUSION: TThe study found that bupivacaine and levobupivacaine did not significantly enhance wound healing, although le-vobupivacaine significantly improved WHS relative to bupivacaine. According to the findings of this study, levobupivacaine can enhance clinical practice by being used in patients undergoing colon anastomosis. It contributes significantly to the durability of colon anasto-mosis, has a more positive effect on wound healing compared to bupivacaine, and exhibits anti-adhesive properties. Additional clinical trials are necessary to validate these results further.

BACKGROUND: We investigated the utility of specific biomarkers—namely, c-terminal telopeptide (CTX), n-telopeptide (NTX), deoxypyridinoline (DPD), and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)—compared to conventional diagnostic methods. We hy-pothesized that these novel biomarkers could hold substantial value in the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of osteoporosis.
METHODS: The study was conducted over a three-year period, from January 1, 2020, to January 1, 2023. We enrolled a total of 520 patients aged 50 years or older who had been diagnosed with osteoporosis. Patients undergoing steroid treatments, which are known to contribute to osteoporosis, were excluded from the study. Additionally, we carefully selected and matched a control group consisting of 500 patients based on demographic characteristics relevant to the diagnosis of osteoporosis. This meticulous selection process resulted in a comprehensive cohort comprising 1,020 patients. Throughout the study, patients were closely monitored for a duration of one year to track the occurrence of pathological fractures and assess their overall prognosis.
RESULTS: As a result of our rigorous investigation, we identified CTX, NTX, DPD, and TRAP as pivotal biomarkers that play a crucial role in evaluating bone health, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and detecting pathological fractures in the context of osteoporosis.
CONCLUSION: Our study underscores the significance of these biomarkers in advancing the diagnosis and management of osteo-porosis, offering valuable insights into the disease's progression and treatment outcomes.

BACKGROUND: This study aims to identify the factors influencing 30-day morbidity and mortality in patients aged 65 and older undergoing cardiovascular surgery.
METHODS: Data from 360 patients who underwent cardiac surgery between January 2012 and August 2021 in the Cardiovascular Surgery Intensive Care Unit (CVS ICU) were analyzed. Patients were categorized into two groups: "mortality+" (33 patients) and "mortality-" (327 patients). Factors influencing mortality, including preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative risk factors, complications, and outcomes, were assessed.
RESULTS: Significant differences were observed between the two groups in factors affecting mortality, including extubation time, ICU stay duration, blood transfusion, surgical reexploration, aortic clamp duration, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, and the lowest systolic blood pressure during the first 24 hours in the ICU (p<0.05). The "mortality+" group had longer extubation times and ICU stays, required more blood transfusions, and had higher BUN-creatinine ratios, but lower systolic blood pressures, GFR, and HbA1c levels. Mortality was also higher in patients needing noradrenaline infusions and those who underwent reoperation for bleeding (p<0.05).
CONCLUSION: By optimizing preoperative renal function, minimizing extubation time, shortening ICU stays, and carefully managing blood transfusions, surgical reexplorations, aortic clamp duration, and HbA1c levels, we believe that the mortality rate can be reduced in elderly patients. Key strategies include shortening aortic clamp times, reducing perioperative blood transfusions, and ensuring effective bleeding control.

BACKGROUND: Various reconstructive options exist for distal finger and pulp defects, including grafting and local or distant flaps. In addition to reconstructing the normal anatomical structure, preserving the sensory function of the finger is crucial. This study presents the results of using bone grafting combined with a spiral flap (BGcSF) technique for reconstructing pulp defects accompanied by bone loss.
METHODS: Twenty-three patients with fingertip defects were treated using the BGcSF technique. Flap sensitivity was assessed us-ing the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament (SWM) and static two-point discrimination (2PD) tests at six months postoperatively. Cold intolerance of the affected fingers was evaluated using the Cold Intolerance Severity Score (CISS) questionnaire at one year postop-eratively. Patient satisfaction was assessed using the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ). Range of motion (ROM) for the proximal and distal interphalangeal joints was measured with a goniometer at one year postoperatively.
RESULTS: Distal flap necrosis, affecting 10-15% of the flap area, was observed in one patient. No other complications were noted. The mean static two-point discrimination value at six months postoperatively was 5.6 mm, and the mean SWM score was 3.56. The mean CISS score at one year postoperatively was 18.8. The mean active ROM angle for the proximal interphalangeal joint was 106.7 degrees, and for the distal interphalangeal joint, it was 65.4 degrees. The mean MHQ score at one year postoperatively was 18.5.
CONCLUSION: The BGcSF technique provides soft tissue with a texture similar to that of the fingertips and supports effective sensory repair. It can be considered a viable option for fingertip reconstruction in cases where replantation is not feasible.

BACKGROUND: In school-age children, upper extremity fractures are associated with both parental and child-related factors and represent a multifactorial entity. This study aims to explore the psychological risk factors associated with upper extremity fractures in preschool children.
METHODS: This single-center, hospital-based, age-matched case-control study involved 55 cases of upper extremity fractures and 55 controls experiencing growing pains. Parents of the children participated in face-to-face interviews. We examined the potential as-sociations between scores on the Mother-to-Infant Bonding Scale (MIBS), Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Report Scale (ASRS), Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and the risk of upper extremity fractures.
RESULTS: Advanced parental age and lower household income emerged as risk factors for upper extremity fractures, while longer maternal educational attainment was identified as a protective factor. In the univariate analyses, elevated scores on the Autism-Spec-trum Quotient Communication subscale (AQ-C), overall AQ score, Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire Hyperactivity subscale (SDQ-H), and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire Emotional and Peer Problems subscale (SDQ-Int) were associated with an increased fracture risk (Odds Ratio [OR] (95% Confidence Interval [CI]): 1.15 (1.05-1.27), OR: 1.05 (1.01-1.09), OR: 1.25 (1.01-1.54), and OR: 1.19 (1.04-1.37), respectively). The AQ-C and SDQ-Int scales remained statistically significant as risk factors for upper ex-tremity fractures (OR: 1.15 (1.02-1.28) and OR: 1.21 (1.02-1.43), respectively) in the multivariate regression analyses.
CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that psychological factors affecting both parents and children could potentially increase the risk of upper extremity fractures in preschool children.

BACKGROUND: Transverse process fractures (TPFs) are commonly encountered in trauma patients and are often associated with polytrauma. While traditionally considered stable injuries, recent research suggests their significance in spinal trauma may be under-estimated. This study aims to provide insights into the management and outcomes of TPFs, evaluating their predictive potential for identifying clinically significant spinal fractures and associated injuries.
METHODS: A retrospective review of trauma registry data from a Level I trauma center was conducted, encompassing patients with TPFs from September 2022 to September 2023. Inclusion criteria involved patients aged 18 or older with confirmed TPFs via com-puted tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), managed nonoperatively. Data on demographics, injury mechanisms, associated injuries, pain management, and treatment outcomes were analyzed. Pain severity and functionality were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI).
RESULTS: A total of 190 patients, predominantly male (129 patients, 67.9%), with a mean age of 45.7 years, were included in the study. Motor vehicle accidents (MVA) were the leading cause of admission (44.7%). Thoracic injuries were the most common associ-ated pathology. Of the study cohort, 88 patients (46.3%) presented with single-level TPFs, while 102 patients (53.7%) had multilevel fractures. Analysis revealed distinct differences between these groups, with multilevel TPF patients exhibiting a higher frequency of associated injuries and a notable proportion requiring hospitalization or surgical intervention. Multilevel TPF patients exhibited higher initial pain and disability scores compared to single-level TPF patients. Both groups showed significant reductions in VAS and ODI scores at the 3-month follow-up.
CONCLUSION: TPFs, previously considered minor injuries, demonstrate significant pain and functional limitations. They often accompany systemic pathologies, particularly in multilevel fractures, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach to management. The "Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation" (PRICE) approach, including Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) and muscle relaxants, along with collar or brace support when necessary, proves effective in pain management and functional improvement. These findings emphasize the importance of recognizing TPFs as complex injuries requiring tailored management strategies. Further research and collaboration among healthcare providers are warranted to refine treatment approaches and optimize outcomes for patients with TPFs.

Magnet ingestion in children can lead to serious complications, both acutely and chronically. This case report discusses the treatment approach for a case involving multiple magnet ingestions, which resulted in a jejuno-colonic fistula, segmental intestinal volvulus, hepa-tosteatosis, and renal calculus detected at a late stage. Additionally, we conducted a literature review to explore the characteristics of intestinal fistulas caused by magnet ingestion. A six-year-old girl was admitted to the Pediatric Gastroenterology Department pre-senting with intermittent abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea persisting for two years. Initial differential diagnoses included celiac disease, cystic fibrosis, inflammatory bowel disease, and tuberculosis, yet the etiology remained elusive. The Pediatric Surgery team was consulted after a jejuno-colonic fistula was suspected based on magnetic resonance imaging findings. The physical examination revealed no signs of acute abdomen but showed mild abdominal distension. Subsequent upper gastrointestinal series and contrast enema graphy confirmed a jejuno-colonic fistula and segmental volvulus. The family later reported that the child had swallowed a magnet two years prior, and medical follow-up had stopped after the spontaneous expulsion of the magnets within one to two weeks. Surgical intervention was necessary to correct the volvulus and repair the large jejuno-colonic fistula. To identify relevant studies, we conducted a detailed literature search on magnet ingestion and gastrointestinal fistulas according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. We identified 44 articles encompassing 55 cases where symptoms did not manifest in the acute phase and acute abdomen was not observed. In 29 cases, the time of magnet ingestion was unknown. Among the 26 cases with a known ingestion time, the average duration until fistula detection was 22.8 days (range: 1-90 days). Fistula repairs were performed via laparotomy in 47 cases.

This case report explores the management of a traumatic hemipelvectomy—a rare and devastating injury characterized by a high mortality rate. The patient, a 12-year-old male, suffered right lower extremity amputation and right hemipelvectomy due to a deglov-ing injury from a non-vehicle-related accident at another institution. Initially, an urgent reconstruction of the right pelvic region and suprapubic tissue defects was performed using a posterior-based fasciocutaneous flap. Following this, the patient was transferred to the pediatric intensive care unit at our hospital with a suspected diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis. Treatment included broad spectrum antibiotics and multiple debridements to avert the onset of sepsis. Eventually, reconstruction of a 60 x 25 cm defect covering the lower back, abdomen, gluteal, and pubic regions was achieved through serial split-thickness skin grafts and a pedicled anterolateral thigh flap. The patient made a remarkable recovery, regained mobility with the aid of a walker, and was discharged in good health 22 weeks after the initial accident. This case report underscores the importance of serial debridements in preventing sepsis, the use of negative pres-sure vacuum dressing changes, the initiation of broad-spectrum antibiotics based on culture results during debridements, and prompt closure of the defect to ensure survival after traumatic hemipelvectomy. Familiarization with the principles discussed here is crucial to minimizing mortality rates and optimizing outcomes for this rare injury.