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Objective: Urinary tract infections are the most common bacterial infections among community-acquired infections in all age groups. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the distribution of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp. in community-acquired urinary tract infections by years and the resistance rates to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SXT) and ciprofloxacin antibiotics, which are used as the first choice in community-acquired urinary tract infections. Methods: All urine culture samples from all age groups admitted to the medical microbiology laboratory from outpatient clinics and emergency services between January 2011 and August 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Samples with E. coli and Klebsiella spp. detected as causative agents in urine cultures were included in the study. Conventional methods and automated systems were used to identify bacteria and for antibiotic susceptibility tests. Results: E. coli (n=50 430) and Klebsiella spp. (n=7763) isolated from urine cultures between January 2011 and August 2021 were evaluated. The lowest and highest resistance rates for ciprofloxacin and TMP-SXT for E. coli were 25-40% and 35-51%, respectively. Ciprofloxacin and TMP-SXT resistance rates for Klebsiella spp. were the lowest and highest at 17-43% and 31-43%, respectively. Conclusion: Knowing the resistance rates of antibiotics used as the first choice against common agents such as E. coli and Klebsiella spp. in treating community-acquired urinary tract infections may guide the empirical antimicrobial therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a skin disease caused by protozoan parasites belonging to the Leishmania genus. The most commonly preferred treatment option for CL treatment is pentavalent antimony compounds. The aim of this study is to investigate the clinical characteristics and treatment responses of patients diagnosed with CL treated with systemic antimony. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 52 patients diagnosed with CL and treated with systemic antimony in our skin and venereal diseases clinic between May 2018 and May 2020. The clinical and demographic characteristics recorded in the patients' files were examined. Systemic antimony (intramuscular meglumine antimonate (IM MA)) was administered Results: 30 (57.7%) of the patients in our study w ere female a nd 22 (42.3%) were male. The average age of the patients was 26.5±14.23 years. Lesions were most frequently located in the facial region, and noduloulcerative type lesions were most frequently seen. The diagnosis of CL was made by observing amastigotes in the cutaneous smear in 48 (92.3%) patients and in the histopathological examination of the lesioned skin in 4 (7.7%) patients. When the patients receiving IM MA treatment were evaluated at the 12th week in terms of treatment response, complete clinical recovery of the lesions was observed in 50 (96.1%) patients and partial clinical improvement was observed in 2 (3.9%) patients. Conclusions: As a result, the data in our study were similar to the clinical and demographic data on CL previously published in our country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Design: Various lasers, mainly nanosecond Q-switched (QS), and picosecond lasers, have been successfully used to treat solar lentigines. However, picosecond lasers are expensive, and QS lasers have a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in darker skin types. The aim of our study is to examine retrospectively the efficacy and safety of long-pulsed alexandrite laser in the treatment of solar lentigines, compare our findings to previous studies with nano and pico-second lasers, and evaluate long-term outcomes regarding recurrence. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 39 patients with a clinical diagnosis of solar lentigo treated by long pulsed alexandrite laser. Patients' photographs and clinical charts were reviewed in terms of demographic features, areas of treatment, number of sessions, laser settings, recurrence of lesions, Fitzpatrick's skin type, and any side effects observed. Results: The rate of improvement was excellent in 33 (84.6%), moderate in 4 (10.3%), and mild in 2 (5.1%) patients. Seven (17.9%) patients with Fitzpatrick's skin type III and IV developed PIH. Lesion recurrence was observed in 5 patients (12.8%). Mean time to recurrence was 57.98±4.45 months. Conclusion: Our study suggests that long pulsed alexandrite laser is an effective and safe option in the treatment of solar lentigines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of our study is to compare laparoscopic and abdominal myomectomies performed in our clinic and to evaluate the feasibility and safety of laparoscopic myomectomies. Materials and Methods: In this study, we retrospectively evaluated 314 cases who were threated with myomectomy operation in our clinic between 2012-2022. All of the cases were divided into two groups with respect to the surgical procedure performed. 314 patients were in the abdominal myomectomy group, 47 patients were in the laparoscopic myomectomy group and the groups were compared. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of demographic data (p>0.05). When the groups were evaluated in terms of postoperative white blood cell(WBC), hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelet values, operation time, hospitalisation time, postoperative blood transfusion and perioperative complications, no statistically significant difference was observed (p>0.05). There were no statistically significant difference in terms of preoperative WBC and CRP values between the groups, but postoperative WBC and CRP values were lower in the laparoscopic myomectomy group (p<0.05). Conclusions: Laparoscopic myomectomy has a short recovery time and aesthetic advantage. However, equipment and the need of experienced surgeons limit its applicability. With the development of laparoscopic technologies and increasing the experience of surgeons with laparoscopic surgery, it will provide a serious advantage over the abdominal method in terms of less blood loss, less hospital stay, shorter operation times, less trauma and better cosmetic results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues have been widely used in the treatment of patients with central precocious puberty (CPP) for many years. In previous studies regarding the effects of GnRH analogues therapy on body mass index (BMI), conflicting results have been obtained. In this study, it was aimed to evaluate the effects of GnRH analogues therapy on BMI in girls diagnosed with CPP. Materials and Methods: In the study, a total of 145 female patients, who were treated and followed up due to CPP between September 2016 and June 2021, were included. In the retrospective review of medical records of the patients, age at admission, height, weight, BMI and standard deviation scores (SDS), bone age, Tanner stage, serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels, luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, estradiol (E2) levels and the peak LH level in the GnRH stimulation test in the beginning and after the first year of treatment were evaluated. Results: The mean age of 145 patients with central precocious puberty in the beginning of treatment was 7.27±0.97 years, and the mean bone age was 9.12±1.10 years. At the beginning of treatment, 118 (81.38%) of the patients were at a normal weight or underweight, and 27 (18.62%) patients were overweight or obese. In terms of stages of puberty, 109 (75.17%) of the patients were Tanner stage 2, 30 (20.69%) patients were Tanner stage 3, and 6 (4.14%) patients were Tanner stage 4. While the mean BMI-SDS of all patients was 0.11±0.99 before the treatment, it increased significantly (p<0.001) by the end of the first year of treatment and was found as 0.35 ± 0.95. While the mean BMI-SDS of patients who were at a normal weight or underweight was -0.21± 0.78 before the treatment, it was found as 0.09±0.84 after the treatment (p < 0.001). The initial BMI-SDS of overweight or obese patients was 1.53±0.40, and it was found as 1.48±0.49 after the treatment (p=0.412). Conclusions: cious puberty increased the BMI-SDS in patients who were at a normal weight or underweight, but it did not cause any change in patients who were overweight or obese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It was aimed to evaluate the oncological outcomes in patients with primary Ta, high grade pathology, to determine possible risk factors for recurrence, and to show the effect of secondary TUR (re-TUR) on oncological outcomes. Materials and Methods: Data of patients who underwent TUR-BT in our clinic between January 2000 and December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients with pTa, high grade or G3 urothelial carcinoma were included. The demographic and histopathological data, development of relapse and progression and their duration time were scanned. The patients were divided into two groups, those with and without recurrence, and those with re-TUR or not. Comparison of categorical variables was done with Pearson chi-square test and Fisher's Exact test. In quantitative data, Student's t-test was used for normally distributed variables and Mann-Whitney U test was used for others. Type I error probability was accepted as α = 0.05 for all tests. Kaplan-Meier survival curves with 95% CI were used to determine the effect of re-TUR on bladder tumor recurrence. Results: Total of 63 patients were male (87.5%) among 72 patients. 21 patients had recurrence and 4 patients had progression at 25 months of followup. Recurrence occurred in 14 patients (66.7%) within the first year. The majority of recurrent pathologies were pTa (82%) bladder tumors. Radical cystectomy and urinary diversion were applied to one of 2 patients with muscle invasion, and multimodal therapy was applied to the other. Occupational chemical exposure was statistically significantly higher in the recurrent group (p = 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in terms of recurrence-free survival between with and without re-TUR (p=0.432). Conclusions: This study demonstrated the negative effect of occupational chemical exposure on recurrence in highgrade pTa bladder cancers. Even 5 years after the first diagnosis, recurrence and progression can be observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gout is an inflammatory disease characterized by acute arthritis attacks, which occurs as a result of the accumulation of monosodium urate crystals in the joints and tissues as a result of long-term hyperuricemia. In this study, demographic data and comorbid diseases of patients diagnosed with gout were investigated retrospectively. Materials and Methods: This study was performed retrospectively in Kahramanmaraş Necip Fazıl City Hospital Rheumatology Clinic between January 2020 and December 2021. Patients over the age of 18 who were diagnosed with gout according to the 2015 EULAR/ACR classification criteria were included in the study. Results: In totals, 110 patients who diagnosed gout were included, 77 of whom males (70%), 33 of whom females (30%).The mean age of the patients was 60.3. The most common joint involvement was observed in the first metatarsal and in 89 patients (80.9%). The most common comorbidity in patients with gout was Diabetes mellitus and evaluated in 77 patients (70%). The other comorbidities, Hypertension in 59 patients (53.6%), Chronic renal failure in 49 patients (44.5%), Hyperlipidemia in 42 patients (38.2%), coronary artery disease in 35 patients (31.8%), Cerebrovascular events was observed in two patients (1.8%). Mean laboratory parameters are as falloows: wbc: 8268, Hgb: 14.17 g / dl, uric acid: 7.79 mg / dl, sedimentation: 19.7 mm / hour, CRP: 8.5 mg / l, Urea: 41 mg / dl, creatinine :1.2mg/dl . As medical treatment, colchicine was used in 80 patients (72.7%), allopurinol was used in 104 patients (94.5%), and febuxostat was used in two patients (1.8%). The uric acid level was observed to be within the target value in 30 patients (27.3%) and not at the target value in 80 patients (72.7%). Conclusions: In this study, demographic data, comorbid diseases and medical treatment responses of gout patients were evaluated. These findings were found to be compatible with the literature. Diabetes mellitus, Hypertension, Coronary artery disease, Chronic renal failure, Obesity and diet are the main risk factors for the disease. Metabolic diseases should also be considered in the treatment of gout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) has been an alternative to blood transfusion because of its practical use, rapid effect and no serious advers events (sAE). In this article, we aimed to evaluate patients who received FCM. Materials and Methods: 185 patients who were followed up in Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine Clinics of Harran University Medical Faculty Hospital between January 2018 and July 2020 were evaluated retrospectively. Diagnosis, laboratory results, blood transfusion and hemoglobin (hb) values were investigated before and after FCM theraphy. Results: 113 (61%) of 185 patients had iron deficiency anemia (IDA), 40 (21%) gastrointestinal system (GIS) bleeding, 16 (9%) inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), 5 liver cirrhosis (3%), 11 (6%) were other diseases. 129 patients (70%) were female and the mean age was 41.45 ± 17.7 (range 17 to 93) years. While the mean hb before FCM was 9.21 ± 1.82 (4.37 - 13.9) g / dl in all patients, the mean hb values of 92 patients reached after 2 weeks were 11.68 ± 1.64 (6.26 - 15.5) g / dl (p< 0.05). Of the 49 patients (27% of all patients) who received erythrocyte suspension (ES). ES was given to 23 (58%) of 40 patients with GI bleeding, 21 (18%) of 113 patients with IDA, 3 (6%) of 5 patients with cirrhosis and 2 (12%) of 16 patients with IBD. In none of the patients, FCM infusion was discontinued due to sEA and no sEA was observed. Conclusions: Approximately two-thirds of the patients were treated with IDA, one-third with GIS hemorrhage and IBS, especially GIS bleeding, and one-third of patients received blood transfusion. FCM significantly increased hb values by 2.5 g / dl in 2 weeks all patients. The greatest need for blood transfusion was in patients with GI bleeding, whereas in other patients, FCM was generally sufficient. FCM infusion did not cause sEA in any patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this study, it was aimed to determine the distribution and antibiotic resistance rates of bacteria isolated from endotracheal aspirate (ETA), blood and catheter samples taken from COVID-19 patients admitted Adana City Training and Research Hospital. Materials and Methods: Between April 1, 2020 and March 31, 2021, 254 patients PCR positive patients were included in the study. Blood, catheter and respiratory tract culture growths and antibiotic susceptibility test results were retrospectively analyzed from the microbiology laboratory database. Results: 433 bacterial growths were detected in clinical samples taken from 254 COVID-19 PCR positive patients. Among the bacterial agents, Acinetobacter baumannii (25.17%; n =109) was the most common pathogens, followed by Escherichia coli (5.54% n =24) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (5.31%; n =23). While imipenem and meropenem resistance rates for A. baumannii were 86.8% and 85.9%, ertapenem and meropenem resistance rates for K. pneumoniae and E. coli were 83.3%, 75%, and 12.5%, 4,1%, respectively. I n this study, 15 o f 21 S.aureus strains were found to be MRSA (Methicillin-resistant S.aureus) (71,4%). Conclusions: Avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use in COVID-19 patients is critical to prevent resistance development and increase culture sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET) are rare diseases and surgical treatment is promising. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the patients who underwent surgical treatment for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor in our hospital in the last 11 years; We aimed to present our findings to the literature. Materials and Methods: The files of the patients who applied for pNET between January 2011 and March 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients with multiple data deficiencies, who did not undergo surgery, and who were younger than 18 years of age were excluded from the study. The patients were evaluated in terms of age, gender, type of operation, tumor size, type and histological features, hospital stay, recurrent disease and survival. Results: Of the 33 patients included in the study, 13 were female and 20 were male, and the median age was 56 (18-86). There were 8 patients with functional tumors, one was somatostatinoma and the others were insulinomas. Enucleation in 7 of the patients; Pancreatectomy was performed in 26 of them. There were three patients whose main lesion was adenocarcinoma and serous cystadenoma, who underwent resection and whose specimen pathology had incidental pNET. We had 23, 7 and 3 patients with grade 1,2 and 3 tumors, respectively. The median value of tumor diameter was 24 (3-80) mm. The median value for hospital stay was 7 (2-50) days. The median value of follow-up was 24 (1-71) months; disease-free survival was 14 (1-71) months. Conclusions: pNETs are a rare disease that can be detected incidentally and should be carefully managed. Studies with larger series are needed to reach a consensus on the surgical and conservative treatment of pNET. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Hepatitis B virus is an important health problem leading to chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and side effects of antiviral drugs used in chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Methods: Five hundred seventy-two patients who were followed and treated with CHB in our clinic were evaluated retrospectively. Results: Fifty-six point five of 572 patients were male, 43.5% were female, and the mean age of the patients was 43.4 ± 12.4. Of the patients, 153 (26.8%) used tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), 134 (23.4%) telbivudine (LdT), 114 (20%) entecavir (ETC), 92 (16%) lamivudine (LAM), 26 (4.5%) adefovir (ADV), 27 (4.7%) pegylated interpheron alpha (PEG-IFN-α), and 26 (4.6%) used PEG-IFN-α + nucleoside analogue (NA). No significant difference was detected between the treatment groups in terms of age, sex ratio, fibrosis, histological activity index (HAI) score, baseline platelet, international normalized ratio (INR), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) values (p> 0.05). Seventy (12.3%) of 568 patients were HBeAg (+), 498 (87.7%) were HBeAg (-). At the end of the first year, the virological response rates were 92.5% in LdT, 82.6% in LAM, 72.8% in ETV, 60.7% in TDF, 26.9% in ADV, 22.2% in PEG-IFN-α, 65.3% in PEG-IFN- α+NA groups. Twenty-three point eight of the patients had treatment changes, and 76.3% of these patients preferred TDF as a new treatment. Virological breakthrough was observed at 43.5% in LAM, 13.4% in LdT, 7% in ETV and 0.6% in TDF groups. At the end of 3, 4, and 5 years without treatment change, all patients who continued TDF, ETV, LdT, ADV, and LAM treatment were HBV DNA negative. HBsAg clearance developed in 13 (2.3%) patients. At least one side effect was observed in 169 (29.5%) of all patients, and the group with the most frequent side effects was PEGIFN- α+NA (92.3%) and PEG-IFN-α (77.8%). Amylase increase in LAM (%3.2), CPK increase in LdT (%27.6), CPK increase in TDF (%3.2) groups were the most common side effects. Conclusions: The drug with the lowest virological response rate and the most common side effect is PEG-IFN-α, so its use should be limited to selected patient groups. Treatments with the lowest incidence of side effects and development of resistance were found to be with TDF and ETV. Considering the high virological response rates, TDF and ETV should be preferred in the treatment of CHB. When all treatments are evaluated, HBsAg loss and cure rates are inadequate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this study, male patients who underwent urethroplasty in our clinic were examined, and the outcome of the cases and the risk factors affecting the success of urethroplasty were investigated. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, univariate and multivariate analyzes were used to determine the factors affecting treatment success following different urethroplasty techniques performed by a single surgeon in male patients with urethral stricture. Results: In the urethroplasty cases performed in 102 male patients, the mean age was 49 years, the mean stenosis length was 3.9 cm, and the success rate was 84%. According to the results of the multivariate analysis, the presence of diabetes mellitus (DM), the number of previous urethratomy interna (IU) and the length of the stenosis were defined as the factors predicting the success of urethroplasty. (OR 1.257; 95% CI 0.073-0.909; p=0.035, OR 5.343; 95% CI 2.233-12.782; p=0.005 and OR 8.683; 95% CI 2.950-25.561; p=0.025) Conclusions: Although urethroplasty is the gold standard surgical procedure in the treatment of urethral strictures, the presence of DM, multiple IU history, and long strictures are associated with treatment failure. Urethroplasty techniques should be evaluated with multiple factors and performed in experienced centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the practice of pediatric gastrointestinal endoscopy, which has increased in recent years, deep sedation is needed for patient comfort and easier application of the procedure. Our aim in this study is to investigate the efficacy of ketamine and propofol combination in pediatric gastrointestinal endoscopy. Materials and Methods: Patients who was applied sedoanalgesia with a combination of ketamine and propofol for pediatric gastrointestinal endoscopy between December 2017 and March 2019, were screened. The patients' age, gender, need for additional medication, comorbid conditions, indications of the procedure, complications, duration of the procedure, recovery time and waiting period after the procedure were recorded. Results: A total of 397 patients, 202 male and 195 female, were included in the study. Their mean age was 9.22±4.72 years. When the endoscopic prediagnoses of the cases were examined, the highest rate (53.4%) was abdominal pain and the second prediagnosis of celiac disease (15.3%) was found. The duration of the procedure was 19.77±8.48, the recovery period was 10.3±3.83 and the waiting time after the procedure was 17.41±4.19. Additional propofol was needed in 20.7% of the patients. Complications were seen in 3.3% (13 cases) of cases. Conclusion: In our retrospective review, sedation was successfully achieved with the combination of propofol and ketamine in 397 patients, and low complication rates were detected. Therefore, we think that the combination of propofol and ketamine can be safely applied in pediatric gastrointestinal endoscopy applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Skull base osteomyelitis (SBO) is a rare, life-threatening infection and frequently followed and treated by otolaryngologists previously. In this study, we analyzed the diagnosis, treatment and long-term outcomes of SBO from the perspective of infectious diseases and clinical microbiology (IDCM). Methods: Hospitalized patients with SBO between 2012-2019 were evaluated retrospectively. Epidemiological, clinical, laboratory data of the patients were recorded. The patients who recovered with and without sequelae were compared. Results: The mean age of 16 SBO cases was 66 years, 75% of them were male and 87.5% had diabetes mellitus (DM). Cranial nerve and vascular/dural involvement were present in 75% and 56.3% of them, respectively. The most common isolated microorganism were P. aeruginosa, staphylococci and Candida spp. 81.2%, 43.7%, and 56% of the patients received anti-pseudomonal antibiotics, additional glycopeptide and additional antifungal drugs, respectively. The sequelae rate was 46.7% in a 24-month follow-up. Hypertension (p=0.041), duration of complaints (p=0.003), bilateral involvement of skull base (p=0.001), vascular thrombosis/inflammation or dural involvement (p=0.007), previous surgical intervention (p=0.041) and elevated ESR at the end of treatment (p=0.014) were defined as risk factors for permanent sequelae. There was no in-hospital mortality. Conclusions: SBO mainly affects older male patients with DM and causes significant sequelae in half of them. In the cases unresponsive to anti-pseudomonal agents, the addition of antifungal therapy empirically may provide a clinical response. Permanent sequelae are more common in cases with delayed diagnosis/treatment, bilateral, vascular or dural involvement, and elevated ESR at the end of treatment. ESR can be used to determine the treatment response and duration. The follow-up and treatment of SBO cases by IDCM with the support of experienced surgeons may contribute to the positive clinical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The seizure is one of the most common neurological problems in neonatal intensive care units (NICU). Its frequency and etiology differ between preterm and term babies. This study aimed to investigate the properties, causes, response to treatment, and prognostic factors of neonatal seizures in term and preterm babies. Materials and Methods: The files of patients with a diagnosis of neonatal seizure in the NICU between 01/01/2014 and 01/09/2019 were analyzed retrospectively. Gross motor function classification, hearing test results and epilepsy rates were examined for neurological outcomes. Results: A total of 86 patients (43 preterm and 43 term infants) were included in this study. The most common etiological factors were hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) (35%) in term infants and intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) in preterm infants (54%). The most common seizure type was subtle seizures in preterm babies and clonic seizures in term babies. The first seizure day was more on the first day and between the 4-7 days in term babies and after seventh days in preterm babies (p <0.05). The onset time of seizures in preterm babies was more after seven days at IVH, and on the first day at HIE (p<0.05). Status epilepticus frequency is higher in preterm (30%) than term (9.3%) (p = 0.015). The response rate to phenobarbital treatment was 71% in term infants and 50% in preterm infants (p = 0.06). According to the criteria (death, epilepsy, hearing loss, autism and gross motor function scale> 2) in our study, the poor prognosis rates were (52%) in term infants and (75%) in preterm infants (p = 0.051). Conclusion: In the etiology of neonatal seizures, IVH in preterm infants and HIE in term infants were the first. The neurological outcomes of patients who had convulsions in the neonatal period should be followed closely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Our research was conducted to examine the retrospective data of patients who underwent Endoscopic Tympanoplasty in our clinic. Materials and Methods: This study is a retrospective study of the data of 60 patients who underwent endoscopic tympanoplasty and followed up in Harran University Faculty of Medicine Otorhinolaryngology clinic from January 2018 to June 2019. Patients who were followed for at least 3 months after surgery were included in the study. Patients who were operated with a non-endoscopic method and whose data were not available were excluded from the study. Pre-op and post-op audiometric values of patients were compared. The success of the graft was checked in the patients' controls. Results: Of the 60 patients we underwent endoscopic tympanoplasty, 25 were male and 35 were female. While preoperative air bone gap mean was 21.5±9.40 dB, the mean air bone gap was 13.1±7.68 dB in the audiometry performed during postoperative follow-up. The graft success rate was 80% (48 patients). In 20% of the patients (12 patients) there was a graft patency. 12 (20%) of the patients were marginal perforated, 6 (10%) were total perforated, 42 (70%) were central perforated. Bone cement reconstruction was required in 10 (6%) patients and ossicular prosthesis was applied in 3 (5%) patients. Conclusion: As a result, when compared with microscope, endoscopic tympanoplasty has similar success results and it was found to be less invasive and more comfortable for the patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKp) is among the leading causes of hospital-acquired infections worldwide and causes serious and life-threatening infections. Treatment options are very limited for blood stream infections (BSIs) and prognosis is poor due to increasing multi-drug resistance. The aim of this study was to assess risk factors for the mortality due to CRKp-BSI. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in a university hospital from September 2013 to October 2017. Patients (aged >16 years) with CRKp-BSI were included in this study. Data, including demographics, Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II) score on hospitalisation date, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of CRKp, antibiotic treatment and outcome (30-day mortality) data were collected from the electronic medical records and microbiology databases. Results: A total of 82 patients with CRKP-BSIs were analysed. The median age was 54.5 years, and 48 (58.5%) of them were male. The median APACHE II score on hospitalisation was 14 (IQR 6-28) and CCI was 4.0 (IQR 0-12). Forty-six (56.1%) patients had ICU-acquired bacteremia and 36 (43.9%) had central-line associated bacteremia and 25 (30.5%) had primary bacteremia. Fifty (61.0%) patients had combination therapy, colistin/tigecycline (28%) was the most used antibiotic combination. The mortality of all patients was 56.1% (46/82) and 65.2% (30/46) in ICU patients. In univariate analysis, risk factors for the mortality of CRKp-BSI were high CCI, not having clinical response on the fifth day of treatment, high APACHE II score on hospitalisation and infection date and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. In multivariate analysis, the most significant risk factor for mortality was APACHE II score on infection day (OR: 1.190; 95% CI: 1.088-1.301). Treatment regimens and combination therapy vs. monotherapy were not found to be significantly associated with survival. In addition, MIC values of CRKp were not associated with mortality. Conclusions: Patients with CRKp-BSI had high mortality (56.1%). APACHE II score on infection day was significantly associated with mortality. The outcome was similar between patients receiving combination (54.3%) or monotherapy (45.7%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In our study, we aimed to compare the efficiency and reliability of using semirigid ureteroscopy (S-URS) and flexible ureteroscopy (F-URS) in the treatment of patients with stones smaller than 2 cm in isolated renal pelvis. Materials and Methods: The data of 45 patients who underwent ureteroscopic stone treatment for isolated renal pelvis stones smaller than 2 cm were evaluated retrospectively. S-URS was routinely applied to all patients. If the stones can be accessed in the renal pelvis with S-URS, direct treatment with holmium laser was applied. If the stone was not accessible, F-URS was made. Groups were compared in terms of stone-free rates, operation times, hemoglobin reduction, and complications. Results: S-URS was performed in 24 (53.3%) patients and F-URS in 21 (46.7%) patients. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of age, degree of hydronephrosis, mean stone size and stone side. Mean operation time was 64.62 ± 9.34 minutes in the S-URS group and 96.43 ± 14.26 minutes in the F-URS group (p=0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of postoperative complications (p = 0.548). In the postoperative 1st day and 1st month follow-up, stone-free rates were 79.2% and 83.3% in the S-URS group, and 80.9% and 85.7% in the F-URS group, respectively (p = 0.768 and p = 0.574). Conclusions: We observed that the use of S-URS and F-URS were very successful and safe methods in kidney stones smaller than 2 cm. S-URS is a safe treatment method that can be applied if the stone in the renal pelvis can be reached without any problem, especially in selected cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Our a im i s t o e valuate t he t reatment r esults o f c hildren w ho u nderwent E SWL f or urolithiasis Materials and Methods: Records of children who underwent ESWL between October 2018 and October 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups according to success and compared in terms of age, gender, stone size, stone location, complications, and additional interventions. Results: Of the 50 cases, 34(68%) were boys and 16(32%) were girls. The mean age was 8.8 ± 5.0 years. 36 of the stones were located in the kidney and 14 were in the proximal ureter. The average stone size was 9.4±1.8 mm in the successful ESWL group and 13.8±3.2 mm in the unsuccessful group (p <0.05). While the success was 90% for stones less than 10 mm, it was found to be 56.7% for stones over 10 mm (p <0.05). T otal success w as 70%. T here w as no significant correlation between age, gender, side and localization of stones and ESWL success (p> 0.05). Conclusion: ESWL is an effective and safe treatment method for children with urolithiasis. Stone size is an important factor affecting success. Especially for stones ≥10 mm, there is a need for studies that will provide the maximum benefit per session and reveal the predictions that can prevent an unsuccessful application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We aimed to evaluate the epidemiological and clinical characteristics, laboratory and imaging findings and outcome of patients with COVID-19 diagnosis who were hospitalized during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A total of 124 cases followed with the diagnosis of COVID-19 were evaluated, retrospectively. Patients with SARSCoV- 2 RT-PCR test result positivity in respiratory specimen were accepted as the confirmed cases. Despite of a negative RT-PCR test result, patients having a combination of compatible symptoms and typical findings of viral pneumonia on thorax computed tomography (CT) were accepted as possible cases. Severe illness was defined as SpO2 ≤93% on room air and to need supplemental oxygen support or mechanical ventilation (MV) or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Patients achieving clinical improvement were defined by defervescence of fever for 48 hours, improvement of leukopenia and increase in lymphocyte and thrombocyte count, decrease in demand for oxygen support or weaning from MV. Results: The median age of 124 cases was 54 (minimum-maximum 17-98) years and 59.7% of them were male. Among the overall population, 58% had comorbidities. Most frequent was hypertension (33.9%) followed by diabetes mellitus (16.1%) and cardiac disorders (13.7%). Most common clinical complaints were fever 73.4%), cough (70.2%), and shortness of breath (30.7%). SARSCoV- 2 RT-PCR tests of 81 (65.3%) patients were positive. Severe illness was present in 43 (34.6%) patients and 18 of them were followed in the intensive care unit. Patients with severe illness had higher mean ages, more accompanying comorbidities, and prolonged hospitalization compared to the patients with non-severe illness. Among the laboratory findings, leukocytosis was more than leukopenia. In addition to presence of lymphopenia, thrombocytopenia and hypoalbuminemia, increases in levels of creatinine, D-dimer, and acute phase reactants were more prominent in patients with severe illness. Main thorax CT findings were ground glass opacities (93.3%), often bilateral (73%), involving the lower and lower-middle lobes (48.7%) and showing a peripheral distribution (49.6%). No serious side effects developed during the treatment given according to the recommendations of Ministry of Health Guidelines. Overall mortality rate was 3.2%, and 2 (2.2%) patients died were confirmed cases. Conclusions: The sensitivity of available RT-PCR tests is not sufficient for diagnosis and management of COVID-19. Therefore, combining the imaging methods and serum antibody testing are also needed for management of the disease process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis, adenitis (PFAPA) syndrome is the most common periodic fever syndrome. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and laboratory findings of patients with PFAPA syndrome at the time of the attack and the response to the given treatments. MATERIALS and METHODS: Sixty-three individuals that applied to the pediatric rheumatology policlinic due to recurrent fever and throat infection and diagnosed with PFAPA syndrome were enrolled in this study. Patients' folders were evaluated retrospectively concerning demographic, clinical and laboratory data. RESULTS: Forty-two (66.7%) of the patients were male, 21 (33.3%) were female. The age of onset of complaints was 2.72±1.59 years. The average delay in diagnosis was 1.71 ± 1.28 years. The remarkable finding which was seen all of our patients was the high fever. Lymphadenitis was detected in 59 (93.7%) of the patients and aphthous stomatitis was found in 56 (88.9%) of the patients. As a laboratory finding, leukocytosis, the increase in C-reactive protein and sedimentation was observed in patients. Fever decreased within a mean of 2.24 ± 1.13 hours after steroid treatment. Another remarkable finding after the first steroid treatment was the resolution of exudative tonsillitis 24 hours after the treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Signs and symptoms of PFAPA syndrome are among the most common signs and symptoms in pediatric outpatient clinics. With increased awareness of PFAPA syndrome in clinicians, patients will be prevented from unnecessary laboratory procedures and medical treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate and compare the sperm parameters and spontaneous pregnancy rates of patients with varicocele and primary infertility at three and six months after surgery. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the sperm parameters of 134 male patients who presented with clinical varicocele and primary infertility between July 2016 and May 2019. All the patients underwent microscopic inguinal varicocelectomy. We compared the sperm parameters (count, movement, and morphology) and spontaneous pregnancy of the patients preoperatively, and at three and six months postoperatively. Results: In total, 134 patients with a mean age of 26.2 (20-38) years underwent the surgery. We found an increase in all the sperm parameters in the third and sixth months postoperatively. We also examined the differences among the sperm parameters in the third month and sixth month, and found a significant increase in the sperm count and motility at six months (p<0.001). The postoperative third-month pregnancy rates were 2.9% (n=4) and 26.8% (n=36) in the sixth month. Conclusion: The improvement in sperm parameters in the third month after varicocele operation continued and increased by the postoperative sixth month. Therefore, patients with varicocele and primary infertility should be aware that the rate of spontaneous pregnancy could increase within six months and should wait for at least that period before applying for assistive reproductive techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To show our retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) experience in anomalous kidney stones and compare its safety and efficiency with normal kidney stones. Materials and Methods: Between 2012 and 2018, patient data was reviewed retrospectively and 1700 procedures were taken into consideration. Forty-seven anomalous kidney stones were included in the study (group A). In these patients, 18 had calyx diverticulum, 12 had horseshoe kidney, 8 had ureteral duplication, 2 had ectopic kidneys, 1 had malrotation, and 1 had bifid pelvis. After making a matched pair analysis, 47 normal kidney stones with similar demographic and stone characteristics were included in our study (group N). Demographic, stone, intraoperative and postoperative data were recorded. We compared these groups regarding efficiency and safety. Results: Average scope time, hospitalization time, and postoperative double J-stent rate were higher in group A. The difference was statistically insignificant (p>0.05). Ureteral access sheath usage was higher in group N, though the difference was statistically insignificant (p=0.63). Stonefree rates and success rates were higher in group N though the difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05). The rate of complications was statistically significantly higher in group A (p=0.02). Conclusion: RIRS can be used in the management of anomalous kidney stones. It is an efficient and safe method. Prospective and larger patient numbered studies are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although many grafting techniques and surgical approaches have been described, repair of tympanic membrane anterior quadrant perforations is technically challenging for otorhinolaryngology specialists. In this study, it was aimed to evaluate the surgical and functional results of endoscopic cartilage tympanoplasty in repair of tympanic membrane anterior quadrant perforations. Materials and Methods: Thirty-four patients who had anterior quadrant tympanic membrane perforation and underwent transcanal endoscopic Type 1 cartilage tympanoplasty between January 1, 2015 and April 30, 2019 were included in the study. The graft success, audiological data and complications of patients were retrospectively analyzed. Patients who had ossicular chain reconstruction, who had cholesteatoma or who did not have regular follow-up and those whose tympanic membrane perforation was not in the anterior quadrant were excluded. Results: Medical records of 34 patients who underwent endoscopic transcanal cartilage tympanoplasty were examined. There were 15 male (44,1%) and 19 female (55,9%) patients. The average age was 35,44 ± 9,84. Fifteen of the patients underwent surgery on the right ear (44.1%) and 19 on the left ear (55,9%). The mean operation time was 31.56 ± 4.04 minutes. Graft success rates were 94,1% in the 3rd postoperative month and 91,2% in the 6th postoperative month. Postoperative air-bone gap values improved statistically significantly compared to preoperative values according to the pure tone audiometry measurements performed at the sixth month after surgery (p<0,001). Conclusion: Endoscopic transcanal Type 1 cartilage tympanoplasty is a minimally invasive, effective and reliable surgical treatment option to repair tympanic membrane anterior perforations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Interictal electroencephalography (EEG) is an electrophysiological test used in daily practice and important in the diagnosis and treatment process for epileptic patients. Accurate assessment of the interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) and recognition of secondary bilateral synchrony (SBS) are important for the evaluation of appropriate treatment options. In this study, we investigated whether the presence of SBS is a risk factor for seizure frequency, treatment response, and localization. Methods: In this study, the data of 126 patients who were followed up with the diagnosis of epilepsy in the Neurology Outpatient Clinic of Namık Kemal University Education and Research Hospital were analyzed retrospectively. Demographic characteristics, seizure frequency, localization, treatment response and EEG characteristics of the patients were investigated and the results of 122 patients were obtained. Results: Fifty-eight (46%) of the patients were female, and 68 (54%) were male. The mean age was 36.5±16.4 (15-78) years. EEG of 15 patients (12.2%) was reported as SBS. Focal epileptiform abnormality was detected in 54 patients (44.2%) and focal irregular background activity (non-epileptic findings) was found in 12 patients (9.8%). When semiological features and EEG findings were evaluated together, 44 patients (34.9%) were classified as frontal lobe seizures, 66 patients (52.4%) as temporal lobe seizures, 16 patients (12.6%) as the others. Forty-six patients (36.5%) had no seizures, while 15 (11.9%) had one seizure per year, 46 (36.5%) had one seizure in one to six months, and 19 (15.1%) had daily or weekly seizures. Twenty-nine (23%) of the 46 seizure-free patients became seizure-free in an early stage, 17 patients (13.5%) became seizure-free after the sixth month of the treatment. Conclusion: Although the presence of IED and SBS in interictal EEG is not a risk factor for seizure frequency and treatment response, and the rate of SBS is higher in frontal lobe seizures. The presence of IED and SBS in the management of treatment may lead to false results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In this study, we aimed to investigate the infections and their clinical outcomes in pregnant women who were hospitalized with a diagnosis of any infectious disease. Methods: Distribution of bacterial and viral infections in 60 pregnant women who were hospitalized due to any infectious disease between years 2015 and 2018 during a three-year period were evaluated retrospectively. Results: Urinary tract infections (65%) and gastroenteritis (8.3%) were the most common bacterial infections, and human immunodefficiency virus (HIV) infection and chickenpox were most common viral infections. All patients were followed at the inpatient clinic except two patients who had hospitalized in intensive care unit due to influenza and Listeria meningitis. An HIV-positive pregnant woman received zidovudin intrapartum and was followed up later. All the other infections recovered without complications. Conclusions: Urinary tract infection was the most common infectious disease among pregnant women. The necessity of hospitalization due to community-acquired but avoidable and vaccine-preventable diseases verified that informing pregnant women about the prevention of infections and screening them before pregnancy against vaccine-preventable diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and laboratory findings and treatment responses of patients with arthritis. MATERIALS and METHODS: The medical records of 111 children (0-18 years) were evaluated who were hospitalized with the diagnosis of arthritis between January 2010 and January 2019 retrospectively. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and laboratory findings and to investigate the treatment and prognostic features of the patients. RESULTS: A total of 111 patients, 66% were male and the mean age was 91±56 (median 83,1-215) months. The most of the patients (n=62,56%) were between 3-10 years of age. Septic arthritis was diagnosed in 60% (n=67) of the patients. This diagnosis was followed by reactive arthritis (10%), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (10%), toxic/transient synovitis (5%) and other arthritis. On admission, there were pain in 96%, joint swelling in 63%, redness in 21%, increased temperature of the joint in 41%, decreased range of motion in 64%, and inability to walk in 38% of the patients. The most frequently involved joints were knee (51%) and hip (35%). The possibility of septic arthritis was significantly higher in patients with high fever (p=0,0001). The response to ibuprofen was higher in non-septic arthritis (p=0,0001). Arthrocentesis was performed in 55% (n=61) of the cases and 34% (n=38) of the patients had underwent intra-articular debridement surgery. Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes were the most common microorganisms growth in joint fluid culture. When septic arthritis and other arthritis cases were compared, the effusion amount, the amount of fluid taken by puncture were significantly higher and the level of CRP and leukocytes were higher in septic arthritis group (p=0,001; p=0,025; p=0,018; p=0,032, respectively). Osteomyelitis was observed in 19% (n=21) of the cases. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, the probability of septic arthritis was found to be statistically significant in patients with fever, leukocyte>12100/mm³, CRP>3 mg/dl, and effusion measured 8.5 mm or more by ultrasonography. Also, ibuprofen response was higher in non-septic arthritis group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Lacosamide is a third-generation antiepileptic agent that selectively enhances slow inactivation of sodium channels that take part in generation and propagation of action potentials and results in the diminution of neuronal excitability. Because of this new mechanism of action, it is expected to be efficacious in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. In this study, we aimed to assess the efficacy and tolerability of lacosamide add-on treatment in refractory epilepsy patients by presenting our experience in a tertiary referral center. Methods: Medical records of refractory focal epilepsy patients who were followed in epilepsy outpatient clinic between October 2014 and May 2017 were retrospectively reviewed in this study. Patients who were treated with add-on lacosamide and completed minimum of six months follow-up period were included. ≥50% reduction in seizure frequency was defined as treatment response. Results: In this study, 88 patients were included. The percentage of seizure-free patients after six months follow-up was 4.6% and the treatment response rate was 55.6%. We also evaluated the effect of concomitant use of sodium channel blockers, the presence of abnormal findings on magnetic resonance imaging and the introduction stage of lacosamide. No significant difference was observed in the response rate regarding the mentioned parameters. 19% of the patients reported side effects, the majority of which were dizziness, vertigo and somnolence. None of them discontinued treatment because of side effects. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that lacosamide add-on therapy is effective in refractory focal epilepsy and has an appropriate tolerability and safety profile since none of the patients stopped treatment due to side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Approximately 10-16% of patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection develop kidney disease and the prevalence of HCV infection in patients with impaired renal function is higher than the general population. HCV-positive patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) have a higher mortality rate compared to HCV-negative patients, not only because of liver-related complications, but also because this contributes to atherogenesis and chronic inflammation. The purpose of antiviral treatment in chronic HCV infection is to eliminate HCV RNA, to obtain a sustained virologic response (SVR), i.e. negative HCV RNA at the end of the 3-month treatment, and to prevent liver complications. Introduction of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), for the treatment of HCV infection has provided over 90% SVR in the general population. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the demographic characteristics, laboratory values and treatment results of HCV-infected hemodialysis patients treated with DAA. Methods: In this retrospective, single-center observational study, patients undergoing HD in Istanbul Training and Research Hospital Hemodialysis Unit were evaluated. Anti-HCV-positive patients with HCV RNA >15 IU/ml were divided into 2 groups as patients receiving and not receiving DAA treatment. Age, gender, duration of hemodialysis, laboratory values and treatment protocols were recorded. Results: Of the 289 patients followed in the HD unit, 11.4% (33/289) were anti-HCV-positive and 63.6% (21/33) were male, with a mean age of 50.87±7.18 years and HD treatment was given for 84.58±43.44 months. Only 13 patients were using DAA among 18 patients with HCV RNA >15 IU/ml. Standard dose of paritaprevir/ritonavir-ombitasvir/dasabuvir (PrOD) therapy was applied as the DAA protocol and ribavirin was added to the treatment protocol in HCV genotype 1a. All patients were found to have SVR. The most common side effects were fatigue and loss of appetite, and none of the patients had any side effects requiring discontinuation of the drug. Four of the five patients who did not receive treatment were foreign nationals and their DAA treatments could not be provided by Social Security Institution. Conclusions: In HD patients, detection of HCV infection after its screening, and started treatment protocols with low side effects and high SVR will provide source control of HCV infection and decrease mortality and morbidity related to this infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Patients with drug-resistant focal or generalized epilepsy are important in terms of treatment and polytherapy necessity, adverse effect profiles of drugs, and seizure control difficulties. Clobazam (CLB), which has a lesser sedative effect than other benzodiazepines, is frequently used in different countries. In this study, we aimed to present the results related to the demographic characteristics, adverse effects, and treatment efficacy of patients under CLB treatment. Materials and Methods: Patients who were followed up in the outpatient clinic of Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty were screened retrospectively. Sex, age of seizure onset, duration of epilepsy, seizure type, duration of drug use, frequency of seizures before and after CLB, and drug adverse effects were investigated. The decrease in seizure frequency could not be quantitatively evaluated in some patients because the study was retrospective. For this reason, two groups were identified as having a significant reduction in seizure frequency and being seizure-free according to the information provided by the parents and the recorded data. Results: Forty-one patients with CLB who were followed in the epilepsy clinic were examined. The mean age of 26 male and 15 female patients was 30.30 years. The mean duration of epilepsy was 20.4 years. It was determined that 16 patients were either seizure-free or had intervening rare, mild seizures. There was a significant decrease in seizure frequency in nine patients. Headache was observed in one patient, and sedation and dizziness in two patients. Conclusion: CLB is especially recommended for add-on therapy in Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. In this study, it was observed that in focal/generalized, idiopathic/ cryptogenic different groups, 39% of the patients were seizure-free. However, this effect was not lost during the mean follow-up period of 12.2 months. Although the value of this data decreases due to its retrospective nature, the place of CLB in the treatment of focal/generalized epilepsy is important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the clinical characteristics, risk factors, and prognosis of pertussis in the pediatric intensive care unit. Material and Methods: Patients who were hospitalized in pediatric intensive care unit between January 2017 and January 2019 and diagnosed as having pertussis were retrospectively evaluated. Samples were taken from tracheal aspirate material in intubated patients and nasopharyngeal swabs in the other patients. Samples for Bordetella pertussis were studied using multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results: Eighteen patients were admitted to our pediatric intensive care unit with a diagnosis of pertussis. Ten patients were female (55.5%), and all patients were unvaccinated. The median age was 40 (range, 38-47.5) days and the median intensive care unit stay was 9 (range, 5-14) days. All patients had respiratory distress, 14 patients had cough (77.7%), four patients had fever (22.2%), and three patients had convulsions (16.6%). Seven patients were intubated. Three patients died of multiple organ failure and cardiogenic shock despite extracorporeal treatment. Respiratory syncytial virus was found in two patients and rhinovirus was found in one patient. The median leukocyte count was significantly higher in non-survivors than in survivors. Blood exchange was performed in three patients due to hyperleukocytosis. Pulmonary hypertension was the most common cardiac pathology detected in echocardiographic examinations. Conclusion: We found that high leukocyte count, viral co-infection, and severe pulmonary hypertension were associated with mortality and morbidity in pertussis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Valganciclovir is the preferred drug for chemoprophylaxis for the prevention of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in kidney recipients. Low-dose (450 mg/day) valganciclovir use is gaining popularity because standard dose (900 mg/day) has negative effect on renal function and side effects such as leukopenia. We present our results with low-dose valganciclovir prophylaxis in kidney recipients. Methods: One hundred thirteen kidney transplant recipients who were operated between 1 December 2017 and 1 September 2018 in İstanbul Aydın University Faculty of Medicine, Training and Research Hospital and İstinye University Training and Research Hospital were retrospectively evaluated. Demographic data, preoperative CMV status, incidence of CMV infection and leukopenia rates were recorded. Results: A total of 113 patients (46 women, 67 men) with a mean age of 42.85 years were evaluated. All the recipients and donors were preoperative CMV IgG-positive. The mean follow-up was seven (6-13) months. In this period, only two (1.76%) CMV infection occurred and treated with intravenous ganciclovir. There were no complications due to CMV infection. There was no leukopenia related with valganciclovir. Conclusion: This study showed that low-dose valganciclovir is an effective prophylaxis for CMV infection in kidney transplantation with CMV-positive donors and recipients. We recommend low-dose valganciclovir due to low incidence of CMV infection found in our study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy with cytoreductive surgery has a positive effect on survival in advanced abdominal cancers. We aimed to present our experience with cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in gastric cancer patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis and a review of the literature. Methods: Ten patients (seven male, three female) who were diagnosed with gastric cancer between June 2017 and November 2018 were included in the study. Data on demographic characteristics, short-term follow-up results, surgical findings, peritoneal carcinomatosis index score, completeness of cytoreduction score, and morbidity and mortality rates were retrospectively analyzed. Results: The mean age of the patients was 60.3 years. The mean follow-up period was six months (1-15 months). One patient developed an anastomotic leak. In the other nine cases, there was no morbidity leading to mortality. Conclusion: While gastric cancer with peritoneal carcinomatos has a poor survival, less than six months with non-operative approach, treatment with cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy offers better outcomes and overall survival. Our first results in our study with a limited number of patients are satisfactory and multicentric randomized studies are needed on this subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the differences between shear wave elastography findings responders and non-responders in the follow-up of breast cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). Materials and Methods: Between September 2015 and August 2018, 47 patients were evaluated retrospectively. The patients were measured by tru-cut biopsy before and after the diagnosis and at the end of the treatment with shear wave elastography (SWE). Measurements were taken from the hardest part of the mass and from the environment normal parenchyma. In addition, the ratio of the mass and parenchyma to each other (R) was recorded. Patients were followed up in the interim period. Results: The SWE value of the mass was higher in the patients who responded to NAC, whereas the SWE value decreased after the treatment (p=0.00). In patients without response, SWE values of the mass did not decrease significantly at the end of NAC. After the NAC, parenchymal SWE values were found to be increased in all patients. In patients without response, SWE values of the masses were significantly higher than those in patients with no response (p=0.029). When the values at the end of NAC treatment were examined, the patients with unresponsive response had higher SWE values than the patients with response (respectively; p=0.05, p=0.02). Conclusion: There is a statistically significant relationship between the response of NAC to breast tumors and the SWE values measured before and after treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological results of surgically treated pediatric medial humeral epicondyle fractures which were fixed with screw or K wire. Materials and Methods: The study was designed retrospectively. Twenty two patients were evaluated clinically and radiologically. Functional outcomes were assessed with the Mayo elbow performance index (MEPI) and the Turkish language version of the shortened version of the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (Quick DASH) scale. Results: All fractures were healed. The mean MEPI was 99.3 points (range, 85-100), with 21 patients as excellent and 1 good results. The mean MEPI was 100 points for patient who was fixed with K wires (group A). Excellent results were obtained for all patients. The mean MEPI was 97.9 points (range, 85-100) for patients with screw fixation (group B). Excellent results were obtained for all patients, except one. The mean Quick DASH score was 0.63 (range, 0-9). It was found 0.33 (range 0-5) and 1.3 (range, 0-9) for group A and group B, respectively. Two (13%) minor complications were developed in group A and 4 (57.3%) in group B. The difference for Quick DASH and MEPI scores were statistically insignificant (p>0.05). Conclusion: Both of fixations with K wire or screw provide enough stability until the fracture healed. Fracture union could be obtained for both fixation type and the clinical and radiological results were similar. The need for secondary operation for implant removal and higher complication rates seems the negative side of screw fixation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To describe the causes of intubation in patients who have been diagnosed with middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarction requiring mechanical ventilation (MV) by evaluating the clinical and radiologic features in the neurological intensive care unit (NICU). Materials and Methods: The patients with MCA infarction who required MV in the NICU were evaluated retrospectively. All patients' age, sex, risk factors of stroke, lesion topography, etiology and treatment of stroke, cause of intubation, percentage of extubation, death/discharge status were recorded. Results: It is found that between June 1st, 2009, and December 31st, 2015, 91 patients with stroke with MCA infarction were mechanically ventilated in the NICU. Fifty patients were intubated with neurologic causes and 40 patients needed intubation due to cardiopulmonary problems. One patient was treated in the NICU after surgery for a diaphragmatic hernia. Conclusion: The patients with MCA infarction who are followed up on a mechanical ventilator have poor prognosis. This group of patients constitutes elderly individuals who are at risk for vascular and organ failure. Their follow-up must be conducted in NICUs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We presented Salter pelvic osteotomy performed developmental hip dysplasia patients results with preoperative and postoperative avascular necrosis(AVN) grade and evaluated the effect of preoperative AVN on operation results. Materials and Methods: We examined eightteen patients' twenty two hips retrospectively whom open reduction and Salter pelvic osteotomy performed between 2002 and 2008. Clinical and radiological evaluation and AVN grading were done. Preperative and postoperative AVN grades were determined and compared. Results: Twenty two hips (19 girls, 3 boys; mean age 32.8months) were evaluated retrospectively . Mean follow up period was 26.7 months. Clinical results were excellent according to McKay's criteria in 18 hips (81%), good in 4 (18 %) and there were no bad or moderate result. In radiologic evaluation according to Severin's grade, 18 hips (81%) were evaluated as very good or good. The mean acetabular index which was 39,3±5,8 degree preoperatively decreased to 22,7± 5,4 degree postoperatively. There were avascular necrosis in five hips (22 %) preoperatively and in 10 hips (45 %) postoperatively. An increase in avascular necrosis grade or development of new avascular necrosis was seen in 8 (%36) patients postoperatively. Conclusions: Postoperative short term AVN rates are high in late diagnosed developmental hip dysplasia patients whom pelvic osteotomy were performed. Preoperative avascular necrosis grade and grade I avascular necrosis cases should be taken into consideration for more significant and comparable postoperative evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of our study was to investigate safety and effectiveness of titanium elastic nailing (TEN) in paediatric tibia shaft fractures caused by high-energy pedestrian versus motor vehicle accidents. Material and Methods: We conducted a retrospective review for children with unstable tibial shaft fractures treated with TEN caused by pedestrian versus motor vehicle accidents between June 2010 and December 2012. Eleven patients were included in study. Six patients (54.5%) were boys and five patients (45.5%) were girls. The mean age of the patients was 7.4 years (3-12). Five patients (45.5%) had closed and six patients (54.5%) had open fractures according to Gustilo-Anderson classification. At the follow-ups, patients were evaluated clinically and radiologically. Also, we investigated tibial torsion deformity by using MRI in our patients at last follow-up. Results: In all patients were obtained complete bone healing radiologically and clinically. In our patients, the average angulation was 1.5 degrees (0-3.9) on the coronal plane and the average angulation was 2.6 degrees (0-8.4) on the sagittal plane at the last follow-up. In four patients (36.4%) were found more than 10 mm the tibial length discrepancy. Also, we encountered more than 10 degrees the external tibial torsion deformity in three patients. Conclusion: TEN is a safe and effective treatment options in the high-energy pediatric open or closed tibia shaft fractures caused by pedestrian versus motor vehicle accidents. It should be kept in mind that these fractures also might develop in the tibial torsional deformity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Design: Classic Kaposi's sarkoma (CKS) is a rare disease, generally seen across Mediterranean and the Middle East region. It's an angioproliferative disorder associated with human herpes virus-8 infection. There is a few data on epidemiology and clinical characteristics among Turkish patients with CKS. This study aims to evaluate epidemiologic, clinical characteristics and treatment results in patients with the diagnosis of CKS in Zonguldak. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the hospital records of patients with CKS who attended the dermatological and venereal diseases department between 2003 and 2014. Seventy-four patients were included in this study. Demographic and clinical characteristics, applied treatments and responses to treatments were evaluated. Results: During the eleven year examination period, 74 CKS patients have been diagnosed in the dermatology clinic. The prevalence of CKS among dermatologic patients was found to be 0.02%. Patient age at diagnosis ranged from 33 to 90 years (mean: 70.2±11.7). Fifty-two patients were male (70.3%) and 22 patients were female (29.7%). Multiple nodules were the most frequently seen clinical forms and the distal lower extremity was the most common site of involvement (80.6%). According to the CKS staging system, it was observed that 47 patients (62.7%) were at stage 1, 11 patients (15.49%) at stage 2, eight patients (10.7%) at stage 3, and six patients (8%) were at stage 4. Treatment options were excision for 35.1% of patients (n=26), radiotherapy for 25.7% of patients (n=19), cryosurgery for 14.9% of patients (n=11), and chemotherapy for 10.8% of patients (n=8). Relapse was found to occur most commonly after excision (58.3%). Conclusion: Larger, multicenter studies are needed in order to determine the prevalence of CKS and characteristics of patients with CKS in our country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Design: Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a severe, chronic, potentially life-threatening autoimmune blistering disease that affects the skin and mucous membranes, associated with the loss of cell-cell adhesion and blister formation. Systemic steroids in combination with immunosuppressive agents are the mainstay of therapy in pemphigus. Rituximab, a chimeric monoclonal anti-CD20 antibody, has been tried increasingly for the treatment of PV. Materials and Methods: We sought to test the efficacy and safety of rituximab as an adjuvant therapy by retrospective analysis of clinical and immunological data of patients. We performed a retrospective analysis of 13 patients with refractory pemphigus vulgaris who were treated with rituximab at Akdeniz University Hospital, Clinic of Dermatology and Venereology, Bullous Disease Unit. We evaluated clinical and immunological data with last treatments. Results: The patients were treated with one cycle of two biweekly infusions of rituximab at a dose of 1000 mg on days 1 and 15, except one received four doses of 375 mg/m2 weekly. The mean follow-up time was 18.5 months. All patients had a decrease in antibody titers or antibodies were completely undetected after treatment. Rituximab use resulted in a significant reduction in steroid dosage during follow-up. At the end of the follow-up period, 7 patients achieved complete disease remission without therapy, 1 patient achieved partial disease remission without therapy, 2 patients achieved complete remission on minimal therapy, 1 patient achieved complete remission on therapy, 1 patient achieved partial remission on minimal therapy, and one patient was lost to follow-up. Rituximab was well tolerated by all patients. Clinical relapse was seen in 7 patients (53.8%) in the mean period of 13.8 months. Relapses have been managed with additional infusions of rituximab. Conclusion: Rituximab is beneficial in the management of refractory PV, induces prolonged clinical remission and has a steroid-sparing effect. (Turkderm 2015; 49: 117-24) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We aimed to compare the effectiveness of holmium YAG laser and pneumatic lithotripsy in the treatment of ureteral stones. Material and methods: A total of 216 patients who had established indications of ureteroscopy between November 2011 and June 2012 were included in this study. Patients' files were retrospectively reviewed by dividing cases as groups that underwent pneumatic (PL) or laser lithotripsy (LL) procedures. Age, sex, stone burden and localization, duration of follow-up, operative times were evaluated. Stone-free rates were evaluated by ureteroscopical examination, postoperative scout films and ultrasonography. Results: Group PL consisted of 109 and group LL of 107 patients. Median age was 43.93±15.94 years in Group PL and 46.15±14.54 years in Group LL. Male to female ratio, stone burden and localization were similar for both groups. Overall success rate was 89.9% in Group PL and 87.9% in Group LL, respectively (p<0.791). With the aid of additional procedures, success rate was 100% for both groups at the end of the first month. Groups were not different as for operative time, rate of insertion of an ureteral catheter and its removal time. Hospitalization period was apparently somewhat shorter in Group LL (p=0.00). Conclusion: Pneumatic lithotripsy can be as efficacious as laser lithotripsy and be used safely in the endoscopic management of ureteral stone. In comparison of both methods, we detected no differences as to operative time, success of operation and the time to removal of the catheter, however, hospitalization period was shorter in Group LL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between age and tumor characteristics and to evaluate oncologic results after radical cystectomy in bladder cancer with respect to age. Material and methods: We reviewed 460 patients retrospectively who underwent radical cystectomy. Patients were divided into two groups according to age: >70 (Group 1), and <70 (Group 2). We compared tumor's pathological characteristics and the results of long-term follow-up in both groups. The first group included 76 (16.7%), and the second group 379 (83.3%) patients. The mean age of the patients was 73.3±3.01 years (70-85) in Group 1 and 58.3±7.47 years (34-69) in Group 2. The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score was less than three in all of the patients, and there was no risk for major surgery. Results: Any statistically significant difference was not found between groups with respect to pathological T stage (p=0.567), lymph node involvement (p=0.179), or histological grade (p=0.567). Perioperative mortality rates were 3.9, and 3.4% for Groups 1, and 2, respectively (p=0.218). Perioperative complication rates were 14.7, and 17.5% for groups 1, and 2 respectively (p=0.578). Five-year disease-specific survival (DSS) rates were 57.0, and 51.6% Groups 1, and 2, respectively. The mean DSS periods were 82.05±4.88 and 71.68±8.53 months for Groups 1, and 2, respectively. Five-year overall survival rates were 43.9% for Group 1 and 45.9% for Group 2. The mean overall survival times were 54.02±8.47, and 69.25±4.97 months for Groups 1, and 2, respectively. In Cox regression analysis, tumor stage (p=0.012) and lymph node involvement (p<0.001) were significant factors that affected the survival in both groups. None of the patients received neoadjuvant radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Conclusion: We found that oncological outcomes of radical cystectomy performed with the indication of bladder tumor were comparable between young and elderly We believe that age per se should not constitute a contraindication for radical cystectomy operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Design: Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a light system of 500-1200 nm wavelength which is used for hair removal and nonablative skin resurfacing as well as for the treatment of hyperpigmentation and superficial vascular lesions. The mechanism of action is thought to be the focal epidermal coagulation due to selective photothermolysis in the epidermal keratinocytes and melanocytes. A variety of laser systems can be used in the treatment of solar lentigo. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of IPL in solar lentigo. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with the diagnosis of solar lentigo in our Cosmetology Unit from March 2007 to November 2010. There were 139 files of patients who received clinical and dermoscopic diagnosis of solar lentigo and treated by IPL (L900 A&M). Informed consent was taken from all patients. Among them, 42 patients, who had attended regular follow-up visits and had pictures taken both before and after treatment, were included in the study. Results: A total of 52 lesions in 42 female and 1 male patients were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 42±9.6 (33-88) years. Thirty-seven lesions (51.9%) were on the cheek, 7 lesions (13.5%) were on the zygoma, 6 lesions (11.5%) were on the chin, 4 lesions (7.7%) were on the hands, 4 lesions (7.7%) were on the forehead, 2 lesions (3.8%) were on the nose, and 2 lesions (3.8%) were on the forearm. The mean number of sessions was 3.28, ranging between 1 and 7. After treatment, more than 75% improvement was observed in 57.7% of the lesions, 50-75% in 17.3% of the lesions, 25-50% in 17.3% of the lesions, and less than 25% improvement was obtained in 7.7% of the lesions. Conclusion: According to the results of our work, IPL can be considered to be an effective, cheap and safe method in terms of its side effects in the treatment of solar lentigo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Design: Er: YAG lasers are precise ablation systems used in the treatment benign epidermal and dermal skin lesions. In this study, we retrospectively analysed the efficiency of Er: YAG laser therapy in the treatment of benign epidermal and dermal skin lesions. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively investigated the medical records of 116 patients treated with Er: YAG laser in our clinic between April 2011 and April 2013. The clinical data of 103 patients (47 men, 56 women) with xanthelasma, solar lentigo, epidermal nevus, seborrheic keratosis, nevus of ota, syringoma, cafe au lait macules (CALM) or other than these were included in the study. Treatment parameters, demographic features of the patients, and before and after photos of the lesions were investigated from patients’ records in order to evaluate the efficiency of Er: YAG laser therapy. Results: The patients included in the study were evaluated in 8 groups: xanthelasma (n=21), syringoma (n=17), solar lentigo (n=16), epidermal nevus (n=11), seborrheic keratosis (n=9), nevus of ota (n=5), CALM (n=3) and other than these (n=21). In the Er: YAG laser treatment, the average energy flow was 3-7 J/cm2, the average pulse duration was 300 ms, the average number of passes was 3-5 repeats, and the average pulse frequency was 3-7 Hz. While no improvement was observed in 4.9% of patients, 59.2% of subjects showed marked improvement, 26.2% showed moderate and 9.7% of patients showed mild improvement. Treatment responses in xanthelasma, syringoma, epidermal nevus, solar lentigo and CALM lesions were statistically significant. The observed side effects were hyperpigmentation in 4 patients, hypopigmentation in 3 patients, hypertrophic scar in 2 patients and persistent erythema in one patient. The treatment was well tolerated by all the subjects. Conclusion: Er: YAG laser is an effective and safe treatment option in the treatment of benign skin lesions especially in epidermal lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate the indications, intra- and post-operative complications, and visual results of combined cataract surgery and pars plana vitrectomy. Materials and Methods: Medical records of patients who underwent combined surgery between January 2008 and January 2011 were retrospectively evaluated. Indications for surgery, complications, pre-operative and post-operative visual acuities were recorded. Results: Sixty-four eyes of 64 patients were included in the study. Thirty-fve (55%) of the patients were men and 29 (45%) were women; mean age was 53±21 (6-88) years. Mean follow-up time was 13±12 (1-51) months. The main indications for combined surgery were intravitreal hemorrhage in 19 patients (29.7%), epiretinal membrane in 12 (18.8%), intraocular foreign body in 11 (17.2%), retinal detachment in 9 (14.1%), and macular edema in 7 (11%) patients. Posterior capsule rupture in 3 cases and corneal edema in 2 cases were the complications encountered during surgery. Postoperatively, hypotonia occurred in 5 cases and corneal edema in 1. Intraocular pressure elevation was observed in 1 silicon-injected case and 1 propane gas-injected case. The average preoperative visual acuity was 1.90±1.9 (0.22 to 3.10) LogMAR. The average postoperative visual acuity at the last visit was 1.1±1.0 (0.00 to 4.00) LogMAR. The visual acuity increase was statistically signifcant (p<0.001). Conclusion: Combined surgery is a feasible option for patients with vitreoretinal diseases and cataract. Visual results and complications depend primarily on the underlying posterior segment pathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the intraoperative complications and postoperative visual outcomes of phacoemulsification surgery for the secondary cataract in vitrectomized eyes. Material and Method: We retrospectively evaluated 51 previously vitrectomized eyes of 51 patients who had undergone phacoemulsification and intraocular lens (PHACO+IOL) implantation surgery. PHACO+IOL surgery was performed in our clinic between October 2008 and May 2011. Intraoperative complications and postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) outcomes were analyzed. Results: In this study, 31 out of 51 eyes had posterior subcapsular cataract. Cataract surgery was performed after a mean of 21.39±26.4 (6- 120, median 10.75) months following PPV. Mean preoperative and postoperative BCVA was measured to be 1.52±0.88 logMAR and 0.74±0.73 logMAR, respectively. In 25 eyes which had been filled with silicon oil, mean BCVA was 1.95±0.91 logMAR preoperatively and 1.15±0.84 logMAR postoperatively. In 18 (35.3%) eyes which had been filled with sulfur hexafluoride tamponade, mean BCVA was 1.17±0.47 logMAR preoperatively and 0.38±3.6 logMAR postoperatively. Peroperative zonular dialysis with instable deep anterior chamber occurred in two eyes, and posterior capsular tear occurred in one eye. Four eyes had Nd:YAG capsulotomy due to the posterior capsular opacity during the follow-up period. Discussion: Despite the well-known difficulties encountered in vitrectomized eyes such as zonular weakness, increased mobility of the lens-iris diaphragm, posterior capsular instability and posterior capsular plaques, phacoemulsification in vitrectomized eyes proved to be a safe surgery, and increase in visual acuity can be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Design: There are numerous therapeutic methods for hair removal with various success rates. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Intense Pulse Light (IPL) method for hair removal. Materials and Methods: Ninety patients, who applied for their unwanted hair, were included in the study. IPL was applied to the face, neck, axillary areas, bikini line, sternal area, periareolar areas, and upper and lower extremities. An IPL device (L900 A&M, France) was used for hair removal. The results were evaluated according to the clinical improvement (0-25%, 25-50%, 50-75%, 75% and more) and patients' satisfaction (very satisfied, satisfied, less satisfied, not satisfied). All results were analyzed using Chi-square test and statistical analysis was performed by SPSS 15.0 for Windows. Results: There were eighty-eight female (97.8%) and two male (2.2%) patients. The mean age of the patients was 33.62±11.11 (15-55) years. 13.3% of patients had polycystic ovary syndrome. The mean number of treatments was 6.5 (min-max= 2-11). 53.2% of patients had 50-75% clinical response and 53.2% of patients were satisfied. There were no side effects except mild erythema. Conclusion: We observed that IPL for hair removal was safe and moderately effective in our patients. (Turkderm 2012; 46: 94-7) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In this retrospective chart review study we aimed to investigate the effect of pimozide augmentation on schizophrenia patients with poor or partial response to clozapine therapy. Methods: Charts of 17 treatment resistant schizophrenia patients who had poor or partial response to at least one year clozapine therapy and whose treatment was augmented with pimozide were evaluated. Patients who had Clinical Global ImpressionSeverity (CGIS) scores ≥4 and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) scores ≥72 were considered as poor or partial clozapine responders. The scores on the PANSS, CGI scale, and Extrapyramidal Symptom Rating Scale (ESRS) obtained in the first and the third months of follow-up were evaluated. Results: The mean age of the 8 female and 9 male (total 17) patients was 32.23±7.87 years, the mean age at onset of illness was 19.94±4.19 years, the mean duration of illness was 12.29±6.12 years, the mean clozapine dose was 500±58.63 mg/day, and the mean pimozide dose was 3.88±0.60 mg /day. The mean PANSS scores decreased from 99.70±13.91 to 3.64±1.27 and the mean CGIS scores decreased from 4.82±0.80 to 3.64±1.27. ESRS scores did not change significantly after the addition of pimozide to the treatment. Conclusion: Pimozide augmentation of clozapine was found to be effective and safe in treatment resistant schizophrenia patients with poor or partial response to clozapine therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In this study we aimed to evaluate the results of pathology that patients undergoing laparoscopic and open appendectomy with suspected appendicitis from August 2012 to August 2014. Material and Method: In this study data from 131 patients undergoing laparoscopic and open appendectomy between August 2012 and August 2014 in Van Training and Research Hospital were examined retrospectively for demographic characteristics. Results: In the laparoscopic appendectomy group handmade endoloop technique was used for closing the base of the appendix. Mc Burney's incision was used for open appendectomy. 47% of patients was female (n=61), 53% of patients were male (n=69). The average age of the patients was 27.7 years. According to surgical technique, open appendectomy was performed 15% (n=20), laparoscopic appendectomy was performed 85% (n=110). Postoperative drainage tube was put to 15% of patients (n=20). Wound infection was seen in 4 open appendectomy performed patients (20%). Laparoscopic appendectomy was associated with a shorter hospital stay (2.2 days vs 2.8 days). When the pathology results are analyzed, 2 malignancies are revealed (1,5%), 1 carcinoid tumor, 1 neuroendocrine tumor. After pathology results hemicolectomy was performed. Conclusion: Appendectomy is the most frequently performed surgery, even if macroscopic pathology is not present the risk of malignancy can not be underestimated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]