Applying a unified model of fiber dissection, tractography, microscopic anatomy and plastination techniques for basic neuroanatomy education: Hacettepe University experience / Aplicación de un modelo unificado de disección de fibras, tractografía, anatomía microscópica y técnicas de plastinación para la educación básica en neuroanatomía: experiencia de la Universidad Hacettepe

SUMMARY: Anatomy education has gathered together a great many of many new modalities and was modified from classical lecture-based and laboratory practice system to the blended modules. In the scope of the present study, we develop a new, practical, cost- effective and efficient three dimensional (3D) educational model, which aimed to be helpful for the detection and better understanding of basic neuroanatomy education. Tractographic imaging, fiber dissection, microscopic anatomy and plastination techniques were applied to the white matter regions of the two brains. After the photographs that were taken were converted to 3D images, the specimens were plastinated. By way of establishing an educational model as a whole, we applied it to 202 second-year medical students. The students were separated into two groups when they attended to the theoretical lecture. Group 1 took the classical laboratory education; on the other hand, Group 2 received the newly designed educational model. Pre and post-tests were introduced to each group before and after laboratory sessions, respectively. The success scores were put to comparison. The average achievement scores of each group showed increase significantly (p<0.05) after the laboratory sessions, besides the increase in the post-test results of Group 2 was more statistically significant (p<0.05). Consequently, this new educational model enriched by newly designed unified methods could be regarded as useful for grasping and improving the basic neuroanatomy knowledge.

La educación en anatomía ha reunido una gran cantidad de nuevas modalidades, modificándose el sistema clásico de la práctica del laboratorio y de las clases basadas en conferencias, hacia los módulos combinados. En el ámbito del presente estudio, desarrollamos un modelo educativo tridimensional (3D) nuevo, práctico, rentable y eficiente, que pretendía ser útil para la detección y una mejor comprensión de la educación básica en neuroanatomía. Se tomaron imágenes tractográficas, disección de fibras, anatomía microscópica y técnicas de plastinación en los cerebros. Después de convertir las fotografías que se tomaron en imágenes 3D, se plastinaron los especímenes. A modo de establecer un modelo educativo en su conjunto, lo aplicamos a 202 estudiantes de segundo año de medicina. Los estudiantes fueron separados en dos grupos cuando asistieron a la clase teórica. El Grupo 1 tomó la educación clásica de laboratorio; por su parte, el Grupo 2 recibió el nuevo modelo educativo diseñado para el estudio. Se introdujeron pruebas previas y posteriores a cada grupo, antes y después de las sesiones de laboratorio. Se compararon las puntuaciones. Los puntajes promedio de rendimiento de cada grupo mostraron un aumento significativo (p<0,05) después de las sesiones de laboratorio. Además, se obtuvo un aumento en los resultados positivos, posteriores a la prueba del Grupo 2, siendo estadísticamente significativo (p<0,05). En consecuencia, este modelo educativo, enriquecido por métodos unificados de nuevo diseño, podría considerarse útil para captar y mejorar los conocimientos básicos de neuroanatomía.

Three-Dimensional Modeling and Augmented and Virtual Reality Simulations of the White Matter Anatomy of the Cerebrum.

BACKGROUND: An understanding of the anatomy of white matter tracts and their 3-dimensional (3D) relationship with each other is important for neurosurgical practice. The fiber dissection technique contributes to this understanding because it involves removing the brain's white matter tracts to reveal their anatomic organization. Using this technique, we built freely accessible 3D models and augmented and virtual reality simulations of white matter tracts. OBJECTIVE: To define the white matter tracts of cadaveric human brains through fiber dissection and to make 2-dimensional and 3D images of the white matter tracts and create 3D models and augmented and virtual reality simulations. METHODS: Twenty cadaveric brain specimens were prepared in accordance with the Klingler method. Brain hemispheres were dissected step-by-step from lateral-to-medial and medial-to-lateral directions. Three-dimensional models and augmented reality and virtual reality simulations were built with photogrammetry. RESULTS: High-resolution 3D models and augmented reality and virtual reality simulations of the white matter anatomy of the cerebrum were obtained. These models can be freely shifted and rotated on different planes, projected on any real surface, visualized from both front and back, and viewed from various angles at various magnifications. CONCLUSION: To our knowledge, this is the first detailed study integrating various technologies (3D modeling, augmented reality, and virtual reality) for high-resolution 3D visualization of dissected white matter fibers of the entire human cerebrum.

Development and Validation of a Novel Methodological Pipeline to Integrate Neuroimaging and Photogrammetry for Immersive 3D Cadaveric Neurosurgical Simulation.

Background: Visualizing and comprehending 3-dimensional (3D) neuroanatomy is challenging. Cadaver dissection is limited by low availability, high cost, and the need for specialized facilities. New technologies, including 3D rendering of neuroimaging, 3D pictures, and 3D videos, are filling this gap and facilitating learning, but they also have limitations. This proof-of-concept study explored the feasibility of combining the spatial accuracy of 3D reconstructed neuroimaging data with realistic texture and fine anatomical details from 3D photogrammetry to create high-fidelity cadaveric neurosurgical simulations. Methods: Four fixed and injected cadaver heads underwent neuroimaging. To create 3D virtual models, surfaces were rendered using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans, and segmented anatomical structures were created. A stepwise pterional craniotomy procedure was performed with synchronous neuronavigation and photogrammetry data collection. All points acquired in 3D navigational space were imported and registered in a 3D virtual model space. A novel machine learning-assisted monocular-depth estimation tool was used to create 3D reconstructions of 2-dimensional (2D) photographs. Depth maps were converted into 3D mesh geometry, which was merged with the 3D virtual model's brain surface anatomy to test its accuracy. Quantitative measurements were used to validate the spatial accuracy of 3D reconstructions of different techniques. Results: Successful multilayered 3D virtual models were created using volumetric neuroimaging data. The monocular-depth estimation technique created qualitatively accurate 3D representations of photographs. When 2 models were merged, 63% of surface maps were perfectly matched (mean [SD] deviation 0.7 ± 1.9 mm; range -7 to 7 mm). Maximal distortions were observed at the epicenter and toward the edges of the imaged surfaces. Virtual 3D models provided accurate virtual measurements (margin of error <1.5 mm) as validated by cross-measurements performed in a real-world setting. Conclusion: The novel technique of co-registering neuroimaging and photogrammetry-based 3D models can (1) substantially supplement anatomical knowledge by adding detail and texture to 3D virtual models, (2) meaningfully improve the spatial accuracy of 3D photogrammetry, (3) allow for accurate quantitative measurements without the need for actual dissection, (4) digitalize the complete surface anatomy of a cadaver, and (5) be used in realistic surgical simulations to improve neurosurgical education.

Dual ophthalmic arteries: a new case.

We report one retinoblastoma patient with dual ophthalmic arteries (also known as "double ophthalmic arteries") arising from the internal carotid artery which fuse with each other inside the orbit. The caudal ophthalmic artery with larger caliber originated from the cavernous segment of internal carotid artery and passed through the superior orbital fissure. The cranial and tiny one arose more cranially from the supraclinoid internal carotid artery and passed through the optic canal. After superselective catheterization, frank anastomosis was shown between two ophthalmic arteries and the central retinal artery arose from the cranial one. To the best of our knowledge, this case is the first observation of a dual ophthalmic artery with cavernous/supracavernous origins fusing with each other proven by superselective ophthalmic angiography. Whether there is an anastomosis between two ophthalmic arteries is important for deciding which artery to be selected for intraarterial treatment. In cases of retinoblastoma, detailed angiographic analysis may be essential to examine the orbital arterial system and to avoid unexpected complications during intraarterial chemotherapy.

Investigation into the ophthalmic artery and its branches by superselective angiography.

BACKGROUND: The vascular anatomy of orbit is highly complex, and the main blood supply to the orbit is via the ophthalmic artery, which is a branch of the internal carotid artery. The purpose of this study was to determine the morphometry of the ophthalmic artery and its branches by superselective angiography in a large series of pediatric patients. METHODS: We evaluated 134 angiographies performed on children with intraocular retinoblastoma undergoing intra-arterial chemotherapy. The origin, diameter, and angiographic visibility percentages of the ophthalmic artery and its branches were examined according to age group and sex. RESULTS: The ophthalmic artery originated 97.8% from the internal carotid artery and 2.2% from the middle meningeal artery. The mean diameter of ophthalmic artery was measured 0.76 ± 0.14 mm in girls, 0.80 ± 0.15 mm in boys and 0.79 ± 0.15 mm in general. The posterior ciliary, lacrimal, inferior muscular, and anterior ethmoidal arteries had a higher angiographic visibility percentages (> 85%) than the other OA branches. Only the diameter of the dorsal nasal artery showed a significant correlation with age. The supratrochlear and posterior ciliary arteries showed statistically significant relationship with sex. CONCLUSIONS: Present study will make a substantial contribution to the pediatric literature about the ophthalmic artery and its branches. A better understanding of ophthalmic artery morphology can help surgeons and neurointerventional radiologists to avoid possible severe complications during embolization, intra-arterial chemotherapy, cosmetic procedures, endonasal and orbital surgeries.

Vestibular landmarks to minimize injury to the mental nerve during transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy-vestibular approach (TOETVA) procedure: an anatomical study / Puntos de referencia vestibulares para minimizar la lesión del nervio mentoniano durante el procemiento de abordaje vestibular de tiroidectomía endoscópica transoral (TOETVA): un estudio anatómico

SUMMARY: The aim of this study is to reveal the morphometry of the mental nerve to describe a safe zone for minimizing mental nerve damage during transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy-vestibular approach (TOETVA). This study was performed on 12 cadavers. Localization of mental foramen according to teeth, distances of buccogingival sulcus-lip (BG-L), mental foramen-midline (MF-Midline), mental foramen - buccogingival sulcus (MF - BG), commissure - branching point (Cm - Br), branching point - vertical projection of branching point on lower lip (Br - LVP), vertical projection of branching point on lower lip - commissure (LVP - Cm), commissure - midline (Cm - midline), angles of mental (AM), angular (AA) and labial branches (AL) and branching patterns were recorded. Type 1 was mostly found as branching pattern in this study (45.8 %). A new branching pattern (type 9) was found on one cadaver. Mental foramen was mostly located at level of second premolar teeth. According to morphometric results of this study; supero- lateral to course of angular branch and infero-medial to course of mental branch of mental nerve on lower lip after exiting the mental foramen were described as safe zones during surgery for preserving mental nerve and its branches.

RESUMEN: El objetivo de este estudio fue revelar la morfometría del nervio mental o mentoniano para describir una zona segura y de esta manera, minimizar el daño de este nervio durante la tiroidectomía endoscópica transoral-abordaje vestibular (TOETVA). Este estudio se realizó en 12 cadáveres. Se realizó la localización del foramen mentoniano según los dientes, distancias surco gingival-labio (BG-L), foramen mentoniano-línea mediana (MF-Midline), foramen mentoniano-surco gingival (MF-BG), comisura-punto de ramificación (Cm-Br), punto de bifurcación - pro- yección vertical del punto de bifurcación en el labio inferior (Br - LVP), proyección vertical del punto de bifurcación en el labio inferior - comisura (LVP - Cm), comisura - línea mediana (Cm - línea mediana), ángulos del mentón (AM). Se registraron ramos angulares (AA) y labiales (AL) y patrones de ramificación. El tipo 1 se encontró principalmente como patrón de ramificación en el 45,8 %. Se describe un nuevo patrón de ramificación (tipo 9) encontrado en un cadáver. El foramen mentoniano se localizaba mayoritariamente a nivel de los segundos premolares. Según los resultados morfométricos, supero-lateral al curso de la rama angular e infero-medial al curso de la rama mentoniana del nervio mentoniano en el labio inferior, después de salir del foramen mentoniano, se describieron las zonas seguras, para la cirugía y preservación del nervio mentoniano y de sus ramos.

Inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy and femoral dissection: cadaveric educational video

Vulvar cancer is rare. The complex inguinofemoral anatomy and the limited number of surgical procedures per year per gynecological oncologist tends to decrease the competency level. This step-by-step, cadaveric educational video was produced to increase understanding of the anatomy and technique of inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy.

Para-aortic lymphadenectomy: step by step surgical education video

Para-aortic lymph nodes are exclusively important for the staging of gynecologic malignancies. This surgical education video describes the step-by-step technique for para-aortic lymphadenectomy with anatomic landmarks in a cadaver.

The blood supply of the inferior nasal concha (turbinate): a cadaveric anatomical study.

The blood supply of the lateral nasal wall acquires a great deal of interest for many reasons especially for the treatment of clinical conditions such as epistaxis that sometimes needs surgical interventions and endoscopic sinus and skull base surgeries that requires a good choice of endonasal flaps including inferior nasal concha (commonly named as inferior turbinate by clinicians) flap to close the dural defects. Successful treatment of epistaxis and closure of such defects depends on detailed anatomical knowledge of lateral nasal wall vasculature and a vital flap with good blood supply, respectively. Because of these we aimed to study the blood supply of inferior turbinate, regarding the sources and courses of the blood vessels. Forty formalin-fixed hemisected cadaveric heads were used at Hacettepe University Anatomy Dissection Laboratory. Anatomical dissection of the inferior nasal concha and the lateral nasal wall was done by dissecting microscope. Coloring dye injection to the arteries was performed. After a detailed examination of the lateral nasal wall; the position of the sphenopalatine foramen (SPF) and the sphenopalatine artery (SPA) were identified. The posterior lateral nasal artery (PLNA) found to give middle and inferior conchal (turbinate) arteries. The average length of the inferior turbinate artery (ITA) was 9.057 ± 1.674 mm, the diameter was 1.452 ± 0.172 mm, the distance from posterior end of inferior turbinate was 7.879 ± 1.52 mm. Anastomosis in the lateral nasal wall between the ITA and the anterior ethmoidal and the lateral nasal (branch of the facial artery) arteries were established. The blood supply of inferior nasal concha is mainly provided by ITA and its anastomotic contributors. Detailed knowledge related to it, before surgical interventions, may reduce intraoperative bleeding and increase endoscopic exposure.

Evaluation of the anastomoses between the ophthalmic artery and the middle meningeal artery by superselective angiography.

PURPOSE: There are three anastomoses between the ophthalmic artery (OA) and the middle meningeal artery (MMA): the anastomotic branch with MMA, the recurrent meningeal branch and the anterior falx artery. We aimed to evaluate the anastomotic branches between the OA and the MMA on superselective angiograms of pediatric patients with retinoblastoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We evaluated 126 angiographies performed on children with retinoblastoma. The mean diameter and angiographic visibility percentage of the anastomotic branches between the OA and the MMA were examined according to age group and sex. RESULTS: The mean diameter of anastomotic branch with MMA was measured 0.58 ± 0.13 mm and we found this branch in 15 of 126 angiographic images (11.9%). We detected the recurrent meningeal branch in 47 of total images (37.3%). The recurrent meningeal branch arose 85.1% from the lacrimal artery, 8.5% from the anastomotic branch with MMA and 6.4% directly from the OA. The mean diameter of this artery was measured 0.21 ± 0.06 mm. Anterior falx artery was found in 86 of 126 angiographic peocedures (68.3%) and the mean diameter was measured 0.22 ± 0.06 mm. CONCLUSION: Knowledge of the anastomoses between the OA and the MMA system are all necessary to perform safe and successful endovascular and surgical procedures involving the orbital region.

Evaluation of a 3D printed female anatomical model for the hands on training of trans-obturator tape (TOT) and tension free vaginal tape (TVT) sling procedures / Evaluación de un modelo anatómico femenino impreso en 3D para el entrenamiento práctico de los procedimientos de cinta trans-obturadora (TOT) y cinta vaginal sin tensión (TVT)

Trans-obturator tape (TOT) and tension free vaginal tape (TVT) procedures are efficient treatment options, which reduce the surgical complications and provide adequate support to urethra in case of increased abdominal pressure to prevent stress urinary incontinence (SUI). The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect and efficacy of 3D printed female anatomical model on the training of TOT and TVT procedures. A 3D printed female anatomical model was produced for MedTRain3DModSim, Erasmus+ European Union project led by Turkey with the participation of Greece, Italy, Czech Republic and South Korea. Face and content validities of the model evaluated by the participants and the experts respectively. During two learning & teaching & training activities and a multiplier event of the project between 2016 and 2018; 41 medical students, 30 residents and 19 specialists of urology and gynecology were educated and performed TOT and TVT procedures with this model under the mentorship of 3 experts. All participants were assessed and scored for their achievement on both procedures with model according to 7 parameters by the experts. There was no statistical difference between the students and residents for each parameter. All the parameters of the students and specialists were statistically different. 3D anatomical models produced from real data and mimicking different types of tissues are suitable for basic anatomy education of students and residents, hands on training for junior surgeons before cadaveric courses in hybrid education system, surgical planning of the surgeons and informing the patients before the operation.

Los procedimientos de cinta transobturadora (TOT) y cinta vaginal sin tensión (TVT) son opciones de tratamiento eficientes, que reducen las complicaciones quirúrgicas y proporcionan un soporte adecuado a la uretra en caso de aumento de la presión abdominal para prevenir la incontinencia urinaria de esfuerzo (IUE). El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el efecto y la eficacia del modelo anatómico femenino impreso en 3D en el entrenamiento de los procedimientos TOT y TVT. Se produjo un modelo anatómico femenino impreso en 3D para MedTRain3DModSim, proyecto Erasmus + de la Unión Europea dirigido por Turquía con la participación de Grecia, Italia, la República Checa y Corea del Sur. Validez facial y de contenido del modelo fueron evaluados por los participantes y los expertos respectivamente. Durante dos actividades de aprendizaje, enseñanza y capacitación y un evento multiplicador del proyecto entre 2016 y 2018; 41 estudiantes de medicina, 30 residentes y 19 especialistas en urología y ginecología fueron capacitados y realizaron procedimientos TOT y TVT de este modelo bajo la tutoría de 3 expertos. Todos los participantes fueron evaluados y calificados por los expertos, por su logro en ambos procedimientos con el modelo de acuerdo con 7 parámetros. No hubo diferencia estadística entre los estudiantes y los residentes para cada parámetro. Todos los parámetros de los estudiantes y especialistas fueron estadísticamente diferentes. Los modelos anatómicos en 3D producidos a partir de datos reales e imitando diferentes tipos de tejidos son adecuados para la educación básica de anatomía de estudiantes y residentes. Además de ofrecer una capacitación práctica para los cirujanos antes de los cursos cadavéricos en el sistema educativo, y una planificación quirúrgica de los cirujanos e información para los pacientes antes de la cirugía.

Protective Effect of Aerobic Exercise on the Nasal Mucosa of Rats Against the Histopathologic Changes in Cigarette Smoke Exposure.

INTRODUCTION: Smoking is a public health problem that has been proven to have adverse effects on human health. Aerobic exercise has positive effects on the human body, especially on the respiratory system. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this experimental animal model study was to determine whether regular aerobic exercise has a protective effect against the harmful effects of cigarette smoke on the nasal mucosa of rats. METHODS: A total of 24 male Wistar albino rats were randomly separated into 3 groups of 8: group 1 (cigarette smoking), group 2 (cigarette smoking and exercise), and group 3 (control group). At the end of the experiment period, histopathological (light and electron microscopy) and immunohistochemical (GSTA 1, CYP1A1, and CYP2E1) evaluations were made of the nasal mucosa of the animals. RESULTS: Goblet cell loss and basal membrane thickening were significantly lower in group 2 and group 3 compared to group 1. In the electron microscope evaluation, the inflammatory expressions of the goblet cells were observed in a very small area in group 2. In group 1, these were distributed over large areas between the mucosal cells. There was seen to be significant swelling of the mitochondria in group 1 compared to the other groups. No statistically significant difference was determined between the groups with respect to GSTA1, CYP2E1, and CYP1A1 scores (P > .05). CONCLUSION: The results of this study showed that regular aerobic exercise has a protective effect against the harmful effects of smoking on the nasal mucosa of rats.

The effect of N-acetyl cysteine on biofilm layers in an experimental model of chronic otitis media.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on biofilm layers and on the course of disease in chronic otitis media. METHODS: Twenty-five rats that were induced with chronic otitis media (COM) were separated into three groups. In Group 1 (N = 18), 0.2% ciprofloxacin + 0.1% dexamethasone sodium phosphate + 0.5 mg/ml NAC solution was locally injected to the right ear of the rats; in Group 2, (N=18) 0.2% ciprofloxacin + 0.1% dexamethasone sodium phosphate was locally injected to the left ear of the rats. No treatment was applied to either ear of rats in Group 3 (N = 5). Histopathological and scanning electron microscope (SEM) evaluations were performed in all groups. RESULTS: SEM revealed biofilm formation in all COM induced groups. No significant difference was seen between groups 1 and 2 in terms of suppuration levels, fibrosis, inner ear involvement, infection staging and biofilm formation (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In this study, while histopathological and SEM evaluation revealed no effect of 0.5 mg/ml NAC on the biofilm layer in COM-induced rats, further studies with NAC at different concentrations are still needed on different types of experimental animals.

Review of the effect of 3D medical printing and virtual reality on urology training with 'MedTRain3DModsim' Erasmus + European Union Project

Background/aim: It is necessary to incorporate novel training modalities in medical education, especially in surgical fields, because of the limitations of cadaveric training. Traditional medical education has many drawbacks, such as residency working hour restrictions, patient safety conflicts with the learning needs, and the lack of hands-on workshops. The MedTRain3DModsim Project aimed to produce 3-dimensional (3D) medical printed models, simulations, and innovative applications for every level of medical training using novel worldwide technologies. It was aimed herein to improve the interdisciplinary and transnational approaches, and accumulate existing experience for medical education, postgraduate studies, and specialty training. Materials and methods: This project focused on models of solid organs and the urinary system, including the kidney, prostate, ureter, and liver. With 3D medical printing, it is possible to produce a body part from inert materials in just a few hours with the standardization of medical 3D modeling. Results: The target groups of this project included medical students and residents, graduate students from engineering departments who needed medical education and surgical training, and medical researchers interested in health technology or clinical and surgical an atomy. Conclusion: It was also intended to develop a novel imaging platform for education and training by reevaluating the existing data using new software and 3D modalities. Therefore, it was believed that our methodology could be implemented in all related medical fields.

The Anatomy of the Sigmoid-Transverse Junction According to the Tentorial Angle.

Dural sinuses have critical importance during intracranial approaches. Detailed anatomical knowledge of the dural sinuses is crucial for surgeons to reduce unexpected venous bleeding. The aim of this study was to investigate anatomical relation of sigmoid sinus and tentorium cerebelli according to clinically palpable landmarks and cranial morphometry. The authors evaluated 222 individuals' (94 women, 128 men) 3-dimensional computed tomography angiograms, retrospectively. The authors also studied on 12 mid-sagittal cut dried hemiskulls and 8 formalin fixed cadaver heads hemisected midsagitally. All measurements were completed using Osirix-Lite version 9 software. Craniometrical values were measured to define cranium morphology. Furthermore, level of the sigmoid sinus according to asterion and tentorial angle were evaluated in detail. Our results demonstrated that there were significant differences between parameters and genders, except vertical angle of the tentorium cerebelli. Distance between asterion and sigmoid sinus was statistically different between right and left sides in favor of the left side. This also varied depending on the position of the sigmoid sinus, as well. Only transverse angle between the upper point of external acoustic meatus and asterion demonstrated a significant correlation with age. This study evaluated the detailed 3D anatomy of sigmoid sinus and tentorium cerebelli related with the cranium morphology. Determining to sigmoid sinus anatomy according to clinically palpable landmarks has advantages for setting surgical protocols and reducing to unexpected injuries while surgery to these structures.

Cadaveric anatomy and dissection in surgical training.

Detailed knowledge of anatomy is an essential part of surgical practice. However, there are many drawbacks in anatomy education that make many residents feel inadequate when they start performing surgeries. Cadaveric dissection courses aim to close the gap between the anatomic knowledge and surgical practice. This review focuses on the role of cadaveric dissection on surgical education, and additionally states the panel decision of the Surgical Anatomy and Technologies Association on the proper use of cadavers.

Protective effect of aerobic exercise on the vocal folds against cigarette smoke exposure.

PURPOSE: Laryngeal pathologies due to cigarette smoking vary among individuals, whereas some smokers remain disease free. These differences can be explained by multiple factors among individuals. In this context, an animal study was designed to determine if there is any protective effect of aerobic exercise against the detrimental effects of cigarette smoke on laryngeal tissues. METHODS: A total of 24 male Wistar albino rats were divided into three groups of eight animals each: control (no smoke exposure), smoking (smoke exposure), and exercise (smoke exposure and exercise) groups. Histopathological (light and electron microscopy) and immunohistochemical (GSTA1, CYP1A1, CYP2E1) evaluations of the vocal folds were performed at the end of experimental period. RESULTS: Exercise group revealed statistically significant decrease in edema (p = 0.03) and inflammatory cell infiltration (p = 0.02) compared to smoking group. In electron microscopic evaluation; cytoplasmic vacuoles were also present in exercise group, but were smaller than smoking group. Edema and swollen mitochondria were also less prominent in exercise group. Condensed chromatin material in the periphery of nucleus was observed only in few cells in exercise group, and observed in more cells in smoking group. GSTA1 expression was higher (p = 0.047) and CYP1A1 expression was lower (p = 0.01) in exercise group than smoking group. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that aerobic exercise has a protective role on the larynx against the damaging effect of cigarette smoke. Smokers who exercise regularly may be at a lower risk of cigarette smoke-related laryngeal diseases, as compared with those who do not exercise.

The effect of cadaveric hands-on training model on surgical skills and confidence for transobturator tape surgery

Objective: To demonstrate the role of cadaveric hands-on training model on surgical skills and confidence levels of surgeons during transobturator tape (TOT) surgery. Material and Methods: A pre-test and post-test evaluation to measure skills during the practice of the steps of TOT surgery was performed on a total of 15 postgraduate urologists and gynecologists during a urogynecologic cadaveric dissection course. The course was shaped with regard to theoretical lessons, full pelvic cadaveric dissection and TOT surgery on cadavers. Results: Good handling of the TOT needle, identifying the right place for groin incision, adequate size of groin incision, identifying the right place for incision at the anterior vagina, dissection of bladder pillars from the vagina, identifying the right place at the vaginal foramina for TOT needle exit, and good placement of mesh were reviewed. The post-test scores were statistically significant for all parameters and also for self confidence level (p<0.001). Conclusion: Cadaveric workshops are important landmarks of surgical education to improve surgical skills, and gain experience and confidence.

Anatomic structure of the internal iliac artery and its educative dissection for peripartum and pelvic hemorrhage.

The abdominal aorta is divided into two parts (right and left) at the level of the fourth-fifth lumbar vertebra and called the common iliac artery. Anterior to the sacroiliac joint, common iliac arteries are divided into external and internal iliac arteries. The external iliac artery supplies the lower limb, and the internal iliac artery is the major vascular supply of the pelvis. Internal iliac artery is divided into anterior and posterior trunk. The anterior trunk supplies the pelvis, visceral organs, and the posterior trunk supplies pelvic parietal structures. The broad ligament envelopes the uterus anteriorly and posteriorly with its sheets and continues as the pelvic peritoneum at the lateral side of the pelvic wall. After cutting the pelvic peritoneum, the retroperitoneal area is visualized and the internal iliac artery with other great vessels of the abdomen can be noted.