Biometric analysis hand parameters in young adults for prosthetic hand and ergonomic product applications.

This study aimed to evaluate the superficial anatomy, kinesiology, and functions of the hand to reveal its morphometry and apply the findings in various fields such as prosthetic hand and protective hand support product design. We examined 51 young adults (32 females, 19 males) aged between 18-30. Hand photographs were taken, and measurements were conducted using ImageJ software. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to determine the relationship between personal information and the parameters. The results of the measurements showed the average lengths of finger segments: thumb (49.5±5.5 mm), index finger (63.9±4.1 mm), middle finger (70.7±5.2 mm), ring finger (65.5±4.8 mm), and little finger (53.3±4.3 mm). Both females and males, the left index finger was measured longer than the right index finger. The right ring finger was found to be longer than the left in both sexes. Additionally, length differences between fingers in extended and maximally adducted positions were determined: thumb-index finger (56.1±6.2 mm), index-middle finger (10.7±4.1 mm), middle-ring finger (10.8±1.4 mm), and ring-little finger (25.6±2.7 mm). Other findings included the average radial natural angle (56.4°±10.5°), ulnar natural angle (23.4°±7.1°), radial deviation angle (65.2°±8.2°), ulnar deviation angle (51.2°±9.6°), and grasping/gripping angle (49.1°±5.8°). The average angles between fingers in maximum abduction positions were also measured: thumb-index finger (53.4°±6.5°), index-middle finger (17.2°±2.6°), middle-ring finger (14.3°±2.3°), and ring-little finger (32.1°±7.0°). The study examined the variability in the positioning of proximal interphalangeal joints during maximum metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal flexion, coinciding with maximum distal interphalangeal extension movements. The focal points of our observations were the asymmetrical and symmetrical arches formed by these joints. This study provides valuable hand parameters in young adults, which can be utilized in various applications such as prosthetic design, ergonomic product development, and hand-related research. The results highlight the significance of considering individual factors when assessing hand morphology and function.

Prespecialist perceptions of three-dimensional heart models in anatomical education.

PURPOSE: This article aims to discuss the use of three-dimensional (3D) printed models of vascular variation cases as an educational tool for undergraduate and postgraduate anatomy students. METHODS: This advanced study involved ten anatomy assistants who were provided with five distinct cases of congenital cardiovascular variations, each accompanied by a computed tomography angiography (CT-A) and 1:1 solid model format. The residents were asked to generate perceptions for both formats and then compare these perceptions based on identifying the variation, defining the structural features, and evaluating relevant educational perspectives. RESULTS: The vascular origin measurement values compared to the statistically evaluated real values of the related cases showed that models were 1:1 identical copies. Qualitative assessment feedback from five stations supported the usefulness of 3D models as educational tools for organ anatomy, simulation of variational structures, and overall medical education and anatomy training. Models showcasing different anatomical variations such as aortic arch with Type 2 pattern, a right-sided aortic arch with Type 2 pattern, an aberrant right subclavian artery, arteria lusoria in thorax, and a left coronary artery originating from pulmonary trunk in an Alcapa type pattern allow for better analysis due to their complex anatomies, thus optimizing the study of variation-specific anatomy. The perception level in the 3D model contained higher points in all of the nine parameters, namely identification of cardiovascular variations, defining the vessel with anomaly, aortic arch branch count and appearance order, feasibility of using it in peers and student education. 3D models received a score 9.1 points, while CT-A images were rated at 4.8 out of 10. CONCLUSION: 3D printed anatomical models of variational cardiovascular anatomy serve as essential components of anatomy training and postgraduate clinical perception by granting demonstrative feedback and a superior comprehension of the visuospatial relationship between the anatomical structures.

Anatomical Basis for the Lower Eyelid Rejuvenation.

BACKGROUND: The tear trough, hollow concavity of the lower eyelid, is one of the recognizable signs of facial aging. Anatomical description is essential in improving tear through deformity for facial rejuvenation. METHODS: Fifty cadaver were microdissected. Fat pad types, fat herniation and the fibrous support system of lower lid were investigated. The areas of the fat compartments were compared using photogrammetry method and ImageJ software. RESULTS: Lower lids develop palpebral bags as a result of herniation of orbital fat against a weak orbital septum in all cases (%100). The attachment of the arcus marginalis at the orbital edge is a large contributor to the middle-aged appearance of the midface in all cases (100%). The most common type is Type 1 (36%). In this type, three distinct fat pads were diverged by arcuate expansion at lateral, fascia of the inferior oblique muscle at medial, as central, medial and lateral. Type 2 specimens (20%) were observed with two fat pads. Double convexity contour is in Type 3 cases (%44). It is determined that the medial fat pads are located in larger areas. Also, herniation is particularly evident in the medial and mediocentral fat pads. CONCLUSION: Analysis of the lower lid morphology enables surgeons to apply safe and effective procedures. The inferior oblique muscle and arcuate expansion structures should be supported and not be damaged during surgical interventions. Surgeons should focus mainly on the anatomical data obtained, and in this sense, surgeons apply them during aesthetic and reconstructive procedures of the lower eyelids. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Topographic anatomical localization of the motor nerve entry points (MEPs) of the masseter muscle.

PURPOSE: The masseteric nerve, which is a branch of the mandibular nerve, passes lateral to the mandibular notch and then spreads in the muscle to achieve motor innervation. The muscle entry points of these motor branches are the target points of minimally invasive interventions preferred in the treatment of masseter hypertrophy. The aim of this study was to reveal the areas where the motor entry points are concentrated in the muscle by dividing the muscle into topographic regions using reliable anatomic landmarks. METHODS: Bilateral 20 masseter muscles (40 in total) belonging to 20 formalin-fixed cadavers (10 female and 10 male) were examined. The distribution of the nerve in the muscle and its motor entry points were demonstrated and marked on the muscle surface. The masseter muscle was divided into six areas by lines passing through reliable anatomical landmarks (Areas 1-6). RESULTS: The total number of MEPs was 231.The mean distance of the MEPs from the Line-1 was 27.4 ± 11 mm, and the same distance from the Line-6 was 30.32 ± 7.2 mm. Most of the MEPs (123/231) were located in Area-4. Area-6 was the second (82/231) and Area-5 (19/231) was the third. CONCLUSION: We suggest that interventions in Area-4 (especially in the middle part) may have less complications as a result of less relationship with surrounding anatomical structures and more effective with high MEP number.

Perceptions of porta-celiac vascular models for hepatic surgery and their use in residency training.

BACKGROUND: Primary aspect of hepatic navigation surgery is the identification of source vascular details to preserve healthy liver which has a vascular anatomy quite challenging for the young surgeons. The purpose was to determine whether three-dimensional (3D) vascular pattern models of preoperative computed tomography (CT) images will assist resident-level trainees for hepatic surgery. METHODS: This study was based on the perception of residents who were presented with 5 different hepatic source vascular patterns and required to compare their perception level of CT, and 1:1 models in terms of importance of variability, differential of patterns and preoperative planning. RESULTS: All residents agree that models provided better understanding of vascular source and improved preplanning. Five stations provided qualitative assessment with results showing the usefulness of porta-celiac models when used as anatomical tools in preplanning (p = 0.04), simulation of interventional procedures (p = 0.02), surgical education (p = 0.01). None of the cases had scored less than 8.5. Responses related to understanding variations were significantly higher in the perception of the 3D model in all cases, furthermore 3D models were more useful for seniors in more complex cases 3 and 5. Some open-ended answers: "The 3D model can completely change the operation plan" One of the major factors for anatomical resection of liver transplantation is the positional relationship between the hepatic arteries and the portal veins. CONCLUSION: The plastic-like material presenting the hepatic vascularity enables the visualization of the origin, pattern, shape, and angle of the branches with appropriate spatial perception thus making it well-structured.

Variable Lower Limb Alignment of Clinical Measures With Digital Photographs and the Footscan Pressure System.

OBJECTIVE: This study examines the effect of the lower limb misalignment and its possible compensatory effect on plantar pressure in a normal population. The aim of this paper is to present a structured method for the analysis of posture and its changes using a standardized digital photography technique and plantar pressure measuring device. DESIGN: Cohort. SETTING: Laboratory. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 200 adult volunteers between 18 and 22 years of age who had no current symptoms of pain and foot or ankle pathology participated in the study. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The gold standard measure of lower limb alignment with weight-bearing status is the mechanical axis and their angles using Image J software. Structural and functional measurements of the same foot were taken using a plantar pressure measuring device. In this study, 5 alignment (thigh, knee, leg, ankle, and foot) characteristics were measured on the lower limb using the 2 techniques, and, additionally, the foot contact area, peak pressure, foot axis, rearfoot angle, and subtalar joint flexibility score were analyzed in 10 different regions of the foot. RESULTS: This study has shown a reasonable correlation between digitalized measurements and plantar pressures values. Quadriceps angle affected midfoot impulse, foot axis angle, subtalar joint minimum angle, and rearfoot angle positively. Subtalar joint flexibility scores were analyzed in 10 different regions of the foot. There was a positive correlation between rearfoot angle and quadriceps angle (P = .009, r = .261). Results of both methods show that they endorse each other. CONCLUSIONS: The posture of the standing feet may have influence on lower limb alignment. Currently, there are no studies carried out by using digital photogrammetry and foot scan. The authors claim that patient-friendly digital photogrammetry would have a positive contribution to the monitoring of patients, even including new ones in the treatment programs, reducing any possible loss in the personal and national economy.

Macroscopic observations of muscular bundles of accessory iliopsoas muscle as the cause of femoral nerve compression.

Compression of the femoral nerve (FN) to the iliac fossa has been reported as a consequence of several pathologies as well as due to the aberrant muscles. The purpose of this research was to investigate the patterns of the accessory muscles of iliopsoas muscles and the relationship of the FN in fifty semi pelvis. Accessory muscular slips from iliacus and psoas, piercing or covering the FN, were found in 19 specimens (7.9%). Based on the macroscopic structure, the muscle was categorized into two types. Pattern 1 as the more frequent variation, was sheet muscular type covering the FN (17 specimens, 89.5%). Pattern 2, the less frequent variation was found on a muscular slip covering the FN (2 specimens, 10.5%). Iliac and psoas muscles and their variants on both types were defined. Appraising the relation between the muscle and the nerves, each disposition of the patterns may be a potential risk for nerve entrapment. The knowledge about the possible variations of the iliopsoas muscle complex and the FN may also give surgeons confidence during pelvic surgery. Recognition of these variations in normal anatomy may be useful to the clinicians when treating patients with refractory leg pain.

Physical attractiveness: analysis of buttocks patterns for planning body contouring treatment.

BACKGROUND: As buttocks region is one of the most characteristic features of the ideal female body figure, the popularity of gluteal region contouring is on the rise. Perception of body form is influenced by its shape and size. Interventions to modify the form of this region are often difficult due to influence. The aim of this study is to investigate the attractiveness of various buttock shapes with the aid of a dedicated software. METHODS: Standard personal photographs of the lower body were obtained from 200 healthy volunteers. Linear analyses were made and anatomical perception was calculated according to reference points. RESULTS: Compared to males, all measurements concerning buttock dimensions were a significantly greater in females. Proportional assessments revealed that in females, the most attractive buttock waist-to-hip ratio was 0.75 from the posterior view. This ratio was 0.85 in males. From the lateral view, the most attractive buttocks have a waist-to-hip ratio of 0.70 in females. Positioning of the lateral prominence at the inferior gluteal fold was rated by 25% of the respondents as the most attractive in males from the posterior view. From the lateral view, the most prominent portion positioned at the midpoint (a 50:50 vertical ratio) was considered the most attractive for females. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that utilizing digitalized reference values for a given body region may be an invaluable tool for determination of the correct fat volume, thus individualization of body contouring procedures. With the help of certain software, this research has shown that it is possible to measure the parameters of buttock, which may in turn be used to offer the best solution for any individual in quest for an improved buttocks form. New ideal waist-to-hip ratios of 0.7 update the previous standards.

Anatomical description of the upper tarsal plate for reconstruction.

BACKGROUND: Reconstruction of the upper eyelids following traumatic, congenital and tumor surgeries is often difficult owing to a variety of reasons including the influence of the lacrimal system, visual system and aesthetic appearance. In most cases of the reconstruction in the upper eyelid tarsal plate is the main anatomical area that should be protected against the damage. The aim of this study is to investigate the types and the measurements of the tarsal plate of the upper eyelids in Anatolian population. METHODS: Fifty cadaver upper eyelids, tarsal plates were exposed to investigate the location, shape, position and their relationships to the upper eyelid. Their morphometric details such as linear analyses (vertical and horizontal) and ratio analyses were studied. As for the shape of the upper tarsal plate, it was categorized into three distinct types: sickle, trapezoid, and triangular type. RESULTS: The vertical height of the upper tarsal plate was the greatest at the central point 10.6 ± 1.1 mm, followed by the lateral point (7.81 ± 1.0 mm), and medial point (6.2 ± 0.8 mm) medially. The mean medial width of the upper tarsal plate was measured as 37.6 ± 4.1 mm and the lower width as 38.5 ± 4.6 mm. The base-central height ratio of the upper tarsal plate was approximately 0.28. For the upper eyelids, the shapes of tarsal plates were observed as sickle (48%), trapezoid (28%) and triangular (24%). Sickle type was the most frequent upper eyelid type. CONCLUSIONS: Considering the shielding function of the upper eyelid, tarsal plate, serves as fibrocartilaginous skeleton of the upper tarsal plate. In successful lid oculoplastic reconstructive surgery, tarsal plate may be restored by evaluating each patient individually to have symmetrical and youthful eyes. Although sickle tarsal plate is the most frequent type, personalized treatment requires measurement and classification. The findings manifest the necessity of oculoplastic surgical treatment peculiar to each individual. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: I, Randomized controlled trial.

Anatomical topography of the inferior lumbar triangle for transversus abdominis block.

BACKGROUND: Rapid development of anesthetic techniques of thoracic paravertebral block required to redefine anatomical landmarks of the inferior lumbar (Petit) triangle (ILT). Anesthesiologists are mainly interested in the ILT to perform the transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block. The aim of this study was to provide comprehensive information of the ILT to improve the success of TAP block. METHODS: Descriptional anatomy of ILTs such as dimensions, space, area, and types was analyzed in 25 preserved adult male cadavers. RESULTS: The ILT was identified in 100% out of all explored cadavers' lumbar regions. The predominant triangle was the acute-angled shaped (46%). The ILT in terms of the surface area was classified into four distinct types: Type I with a surface area <8 cm2 was identified in 50%. Type II or intermediate triangles with a surface area of 8-12 cm2 were detected in 36%. Type III or large triangles with a surface area >12 cm2 were found in 14%. Type 0 or no triangle did not exhibit a triangle. For the orientation zone over the posterior lumbar region, it was measured with the distances from the posterior median line (M) to the apex (A), medial point (B), and lateral point (C) of the triangle. MA; as M1A transverse line: 103.3 ± 21.3 mm (left) and 106.4 ± 18.4 mm (right), MB; as M2B transverse line; 102.4 ± 21.8 mm (left) and 105 ± 17.9 mm (right), MC; as M3C transverse line; 119 ± 20.5 mm (left) and 120 ± 19.2 mm (right) were measured. In addition, the measurements of the vertical lines were measured. M1A-M2B and M1A-M3C vertical lines were 20.1-22.8 mm (left-right) and 30-29 mm (left-right), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The shape, the size, useful points, geometry, and topography of the ILT are important to determine the orientation points during block procedures. It is possible to visualize the needle pathway in different shape of ILT to ultrasound-guided TAP block. Anesthetic intervention needs to be individualized, depending upon the size of the triangle. The findings may be useful in establishing the area with the highest probability of localization of the ILT which can improve both the safety and efficiency of TAP block.

Anatomical landmarks of mandibular interforaminal region related to dental implant placement with 3D CBCT: comparison between edentulous and dental mandibles.

BACKGROUND: Anterior mandibular (interforaminal) region is important in implant applications as it serves a basis for neurovascular bedding and holds the prosthesis for patients. Treatment planning for dental implant patients is often complicated by the unknown extent of the anterior loop of the neurovascular bundle. Anatomical structures including mandibular incisive canal (MIC) and lingual foramen (LF) should also be examined as part of the detailed analysis for their neurovascular structures. This study aimed to detect the positions of LF and MIC as well as the prolongation of interforaminal region in Anatolian population to supply the reference data of the surgical safe zone in chin for the clinicians. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Mandibles of 70 adult specimens (35 edentulous + 35 dentate) were retrieved from the Department of Anatomy, Ege University. Images of the dry mandibles were obtained using a cone beam computed tomography unit applying a standardized exposure protocol. Afterwards, mandibles were sawn into vertical sections according to the respective tomographic cross-sections. Images were evaluated for the absence/presence of the MIC, its dimensions and antero-posterior length for both edentulous and dentate groups. In addition; the presence, number, location, labial canal and LF diameter and height of the LF were determined for both groups. RESULTS: The MIC was observed in 80 and 68.6% of the dentate and edentulous groups, consecutively (p > 0.05). The MIC continued towards the incisor region in a slightly downward direction. The LF was observed in all dentate mandibles (100%), while it was present in 94.3% of the edentulous mandibles (p > 0.05). For the dentate group, 62.9% of the specimens had two foramens and 20% had three foramens in the mandibular midline. Mean length of the MIC in dentate groups and edentulous groups was measured as 2.55 ± 0.809 and 3.08 ± 1.745 mm, respectively. Well-defined MIC mean diameter in dentate groups and edentulous groups were measured as 2.44 ± 0.702 and 2.35 ± 0.652 mm, respectively. Significant difference was found between dentate and edentulous group in most of the parameters except for the LF and the diameter of the MIC (p > 0.05). The correlation between observers' measurements ranged between 0.742 and 0.993 for all anatomical landmarks and mandible groups. CONCLUSION: The MIC and LF are associated with neurovascular bundle variations in number, location and size. Therefore, clinicians should determine each of these anatomical structures on a case-by-case basis to recognize their presence and to take measures for the possible implications of various treatment options. These guidelines included leaving a 2 mm safety zone between an implant and the coronal aspect of the neurovascular bundle. To avoid neurovascular injury during surgery in the interforaminal area, guidelines were developed with respect to validating the presence of an anterior loop of the neurovascular bundle.

Digitalized analysis of philtral anatomy for planning individual treatment.

OBJECTIVE: Restoration of the philtral region following traumatic, cleft, and tumor surgeries is often difficult due to influence of this feature to whole facial beauty. The aim of this study is to investigate the types and measurements of the philtrum and its relationship with the upper lip using a software. METHODS: Standard personal photographs of the philtral region were obtained from 200 young adults participated in this study. Linear analyses (the lengths of philtral column and dimple; the philtral width) and angular analyses (apex and central angles of Cupid's bow) were measured as reference points. As for the shape of the philtral column, it was categorized as four distinct types: parallel, triangular, concave, and unclear type. RESULTS: The philtral width was 11.37 ± 1.9 mm in males, 10.21 ± 1.80 mm in females. The length of the philtral dimple was 18.16 ± 3.6 mm in males, 18.16 ± 3.6 mm in females. Compared with women, both of the measured average philtral reference lengths displayed a significantly greater value in men. In the meanwhile, compared to women, the angular measurements of Cupid's bow (i.e., the apex and central angle of Cupid's bow) were smaller in men. It was 127.47 ± 12.74° mm in males, 134.1 ± 11.38° mm in females. The triangular and concave types were associated with a substantial fraction in men, whereas the triangular and parallel types were predominant in women. There were significant gender differences in the esthetic rankings of philtral column shapes. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest digitalized reference values relative to the philtral column which may increase the success of the individual reconstructive treatment of the surgical procedures and reduce possible asymmetrical appearance. With the help of certain software, this research has made possible to investigate the ideal parameters of philtral construction in defining the best surgical solution for the patient.

Study of frontal hairline patterns for natural design and restoration.

OBJECTIVE: Hair loss is one of the most noticeable esthetic problems of the mankind. Hair transplantation has been a highly effective technique in reducing wide foreheads and recontouring the hairline. Creating a natural hairline is one of the most important elements of a successful hair transplant. This study aims at the requirements which are essential in designing hairline morphometrics and natural frontline. METHODS: Standard photographs of the forehead region were obtained from two hundred young Turkish adults participated in this study. The hairline contour was classified into five groups as round, M-shaped, rectangular, bell-shaped and triangular. Measurements of the forehead region, such as the height of the forehead, widths of the forehead and supraorbital region were calculated as reference points. RESULTS: In women, the average height of the forehead was 58.3 ± 6.6 mm, the average width of the forehead and the supraorbital region was 129 ± 14.4 mm and 125.3 ± 13.5 mm, respectively. The incidence of the hairline shapes was seen as; round (28%), M-shaped (19%), rectangular (30%), bell-shaped (5%), or triangular (18%). In men, the average height of the forehead was 61.4 ± 9.7 mm, the average width of the forehead and supraorbital region was 137.1 ± 18 mm and 133.9 ± 15.9 mm, respectively. The hairline contour among young male adults was classified as round in 27%, M-shaped in 46%, rectangular in 31%, bell-shaped in 4% and triangular in 2%. The rectangular and M-shaped hairlines resemble a more masculine appearance, whereas round shaped hairline resembles femininity. CONCLUSION: Ideal reconstruction of scalp defects relies on a comprehensive understanding of scalp anatomy and detailed information of patient factors. The classification of the hairline and measured forehead reference lengths will be beneficial in the correction of wide foreheads. There were significant gender differences in the esthetic rankings of the hairline contour. Compared to women, both of the measured average forehead reference lengths displayed a significantly greater value in men. Our results clearly showed that sex difference affected the predominance of the contour type. The M shape was the most common, and the triangular type was poorly classified in men, whereas the rectangular hairline was the most common type among women.

Anatomocosmetic implication rules of the corrugator supercilii muscle for youthful eye appearance.

The dynamic balance of the eyebrows is maintained by the frontal muscle which acts as a brow elevator, and the brow depressors include corrugator supercilii muscle (CSM), procerus, depressor supercilii, and orbicularis oculi muscles. The glabellar rhytids might appear as a result of negative emotions, such as anger, anxiety, fatigue, fear, or disapproval. For youthful and calmer eyes, CSM may restore the muscle balance more safely and effectively for the treatments of forehead rejuvenation. In 50 cadaver hemibrows, CSM was dissected to investigate the location, position, muscle patterns, and its relationships to other muscles. The location of the CSM was variable; five different CSM patterns were defined. Pattern 1: rectangular-shaped classical type was observed with the frequency of 42.5 %. Also, three bellies were present in 25 %, and duplicate muscle in 12.5 %. Irregular flat (15 %) and hypoplastic types (5 %) were introduced as previously unidentified patterns. In muscle specimens, 30 % had complete symmetry, 45 % complete asymmetry, and 25 % semi-assymetry. Mean CSM thickness, length, and width were measured as 1.62 ± 0.4, 29.24 ± 6.4, and 12.62 ± 3.3 mm, respectively. The distances of the medial origo of the CSM-midline and the lateral origo of the CSM-midline were measured as 5.54 ± 4.89 and 14.62 ± 4.17 mm. The different patterns of the CSM were undefined previously. The findings manifest the necessity of botox treatment peculiar to each individual. As, insertion points have been releasing fibres to the peripheral muscles, it is an evidence of its complicated structure. The muscles in the glabella are difficult to demarcate precisely from surface anatomy due to overlapped muscles with intermingled borders, where they are attached as individual patterns. Hence, it might be disadvantageous that different patterns may lead to the risk of asymmetry of the face and brow ptosis in the postinjection period.

Increased osseous thickening of the inner surface of the frontal bone.

AIM: Increased thickening of the internal surface of the frontal bone (ISFB) was investigated, regarding possible pressure application to the brain tissue and the changes in bone marrow structure. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Morphological analysis of the ISFB was carried out in a total of 300 adult skulls. RESULTS: Type A, defined as normal appearance, has been detected in 243 cranium. In 57 cranium (19%), increased osseous thickening cases with different appearance were observed. The most frequent examples of osseous thickening were present in nodular types (Types B, C) and diffuse types (Types D, E), (29.8%). In fact, an irregular osseous thickening, which is in the form of plaques, was situated on both sides of the origin of sagittal sulcus. Types B and C were seen as small isolated nodules on the ISFB. In the histological analysis of ISFB, it is determined that the endocranium, normally present in a compact bone structure, changed its lamellar and had a nonwoven immature bone structure, in the areas with the characteristic of increased osseous thickening. The thickening of the diploe gap and increasing lamellar bone tissue in the endocranium revealed an increase in vascularization. CONCLUSION: The nodular and widespread form of increased osseous thickening could apply pressure on to dura mater and the brain tissue.

Anxiety of first cadaver demonstration in medical, dentistry and pharmacy faculty students.

Anatomy is the fundamental of medical and health professional education. Anatomic dissection enables the examination of the organs in the human cadavers systematically and topographically. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of the first cadaver demonstration and the anxiety of medical, dental and pharmacy students. A questionnaire was distributed to 486 students in the same academic year (2009-2010) at Ege University. The review of anxiety reveals the circumstances such as exhaustion, stress, depression, anxiety, destructive life, deterioration of mental or physical quality or asthenia (over-fatigue), professionally having a serious effect on the students. 486 (85.3 %) students in total participated in this research carried out as based on voluntariness as 338 (93.9 %) students from the medical faculty, 78 (70.9 %) students from the faculty of dentistry and 70 (70 %) students from the faculty of pharmacy.A medium level of anxiety was detected in the students in their first encounter with the cadaver. The state anxiety score (SAS) average taken by all the students who took part in the research is 42.6 ± 5.60 and trait anxiety score average is 46.6 ± 5.0. No discrepancy was detected among the faculties with respect to anxiety score. While the SASs of the male students were higher than the girls, the trait anxiety scores of the girl students were detected to be higher than male students. While the characteristics and the cultural life of our society force the male students into stronger behavioral patterns, they may actually increase their anxiety level in distressed conditions. The fact that trait anxiety is high in both sexes, particularly in female students can be explained by the patient responsibility and the work load undertaken in the professions in the medical field as early as the period of education.Before the students' applied lessons with the cadavers start, a preparatory session must be planned for this education to decrease the anxiety level by sharing their sensations, feelings and perceptions related to the demonstration.

Acceptability, validity and reliability of the Turkish QUALIOST(®) in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.

The quality-of-life questionnaire in osteoporosis (QUALIOST(®)) is commonly used and accepted generic instrument in osteoporosis. This study aimed to translate QUALIOST(®) into Turkish language and assess its reliability, validity and acceptability in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO). After the questionnaire was translated into Turkish, it was administered to 110 with PMO. The reliability studies were assessed by test-retest reliability (ICC) and internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha). Construct validity was assessed by using correlating QUALIOST(®) with SF-36. Results showed that ICC values were 0.92, 0.91 and 0.92, for physical domain, emotional domain and total QUALIOST(®) scores, respectively. Similarly, Cronbach's alpha was acceptable in all domains (0.85, 0.83 and 0.84, respectively). Significant moderate-to-high correlations were obtained between QUALIOST(®) and SF-36 dimensions (r value between -0.39 and -0.72, p < 0.001). Also, there were moderate-high correlations between the domains of questionnaire and pain intensity and disease duration (r value between 0.35 and 0.45, p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study, which reported firstly psychometric properties and usefulness of the Turkish QUALIOST(®), showed that it is a potentially useful measure with a high validity and reliability standards.

Accessory tendon slip arising from the extensor carpi ulnaris and its importance for wrist pain.

OBJECTIVE: The anatomical variations of the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) muscle can cause a functional impairment of the wrist and the little finger. The aim of this study was to determine the number, thickness and type of accessory tendon arising from the ECU. METHODS: The presence of an accessory tendinous slip from the ECU muscle was examined in terms of gross appearance, size, shape, thickness, location and distribution in 54 cadaveric forearms. RESULTS: The accessory slips arising from the ECU muscle were observed in three specimens (5.6%) (two left, one right). These slips ran to the ulnar side of the extensor digiti minimi tendon, originated from the head of the ECU, and ended on the extensor apparatus of the fifth finger. The mean width of the tendinous slips was 1.4±0.01 mm. CONCLUSION: This anatomic variation of the ECU should be considered in diagnostic and surgical procedures involving the dorsum of the hand. Its clinical importance in the treatment of tenosynovitis and subluxation of joints is also stressed.

Anatomical similarity between tendons and Type 3 intertendinous connections: suitability as local donor tissue.

OBJECTIVE: A detailed anatomical knowledge of the extensor tendons of the hand is essential for accomplishing successful tendon repair. The aim of this study was to investigate the similarities between the extensor tendon and the thickest intertendinous connections (IC) in the 4th intermetacarpal space, where Type 3 IC is most frequently seen. METHODS: A total of 38 dissected hands were studied for anatomical structures that might serve as donor extensor tendons as well as for their relationship with the IC in the fourth intermetacarpal space of the dorsal hand. RESULTS: The most frequent anatomical pattern in the extensor tendons of the fourth intermetacarpal space were the two tendons from the extensor digiti minimi muscle (68.5%) and the thickest type of IC (90%). Other common findings detected at microscopy included the presence of a capsule in the structures associated with the tendon and IC, rich vascularization and high collagen content. CONCLUSION: Type 3 IC resembles tendons in strength and because of its histological similarity, the IC may be suitable to use in tendon repair. The fourth intermetacarpal space appeared to have the greatest tendon length and thickest IC content and is therefore a suitable donor graft tissue for local tendon repair.