{"title":"Obturator Nerve Variations: A Narrative Review.","authors":"Rouan Barakat, Viktoria-Maria Karaflou, Panagiotis Giavopoulos, Nikolaos Pappas, Georgios Tsakotos, Dimitrios Filippou","doi":"10.5644/ama2006-124.465","DOIUrl":"10.5644/ama2006-124.465","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The aim is to understand the clinical significance of these variations in surgeries and diseases. To conduct this review, we used the PubMed database, considering factors such as the availability of full texts, the language and relevance to the topic, in order to acquire comprehensive and detailed findings. After applying our exclusion criteria, we narrowed the findings down to 11 useful results. Throughout our study, we observed significant variations concerning the obturator nerve. The nerve displays diverse paths and trajectories, leading to deviations from the commonly accepted anatomical description. Additionally, we identified variations in the division point of the obturator nerve and the resulting innervation patterns that it provides for muscles, joints, and skin. More precisely, we discovered differences regarding the path, the source and the level of composition. Moreover, the muscles innervated by the obturator nerve's anterior branch and posterior branch may vary. Furthermore, variations were observed in the innervation of both the skin and joints. CONCLUSION: Our research demonstrates that the obturator nerve is susceptible to many forms of variations. Accurate knowledge of these variations is crucial for minimizing iatrogenic complications and ensuring patient care.</p>","PeriodicalId":38313,"journal":{"name":"Acta medica academica","volume":"53 3","pages":"328-334"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11831538/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143190370","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"An Ectopic External Jugular Vein Draining into the Axillary Vein: a Rare Anatomical Variation with Clinical Implications.","authors":"Dimitra Daskalopoulou, Dimosthenis Chrysikos, Amir Shihada, Alexandros Samolis, Nikolaos Pappas, Dimitrios Filippou, Theodore Troupis","doi":"10.5644/ama2006-124.441","DOIUrl":"10.5644/ama2006-124.441","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Objective: </strong>The external jugular vein drains a considerable part of the head and neck and constitutes a vessel implicated in various procedures in the cervical region. The aim of this study is to present an uncommon anatomical variation of the external jugular vein, and discuss the clinical implications of its presence.</p><p><strong>Case report: </strong>We present a rare case of an ectopic external jugular vein terminating into the axillary vein, that we came across during routine dissection of a male cadaver of Greek origin.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The venous system of the external jugular vein is used during procedures for the treatment of various conditions such as cardiac arrhythmias, hydrocephalus and defects of the head and neck. Hence, encountering the unpredictable course of a variant draining into the axillary vein may complicate these interventions, leading to multiple manipulations and undesirable results. Surgeons should be aware of the alternate anatomy of the venous system of the cervical region, and mindful of the possibility of encountering them.</p>","PeriodicalId":38313,"journal":{"name":"Acta medica academica","volume":" ","pages":"309-313"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11831535/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141564734","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"The Efficacy of Various Orthodontic Appliances in the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea.","authors":"Amina Građanin, Azra Jelešković, Vildana Džemidžić, Alisa Tiro, Lejla Redžepagić-Vražalica","doi":"10.5644/ama2006-124.448","DOIUrl":"10.5644/ama2006-124.448","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Objective: </strong>The goal of this review was to determine the effectiveness of different types of monobloc and bibloc mandibular advancement device (MAD) devices in the treatment of all forms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), by reviewing the available literature.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, ResearchGate, NCBI and Google Scholar databases. The search included articles in English, published in the inclusive time period from 2000 to 2024.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>A total of 13 studies were analyzed that directly compared the effectiveness of monobloc and bibloc devices. The studies were published in the period from 2000 to 2024, and included crossover and parallel randomized controlled trials, as well as cross and parallel cohort studies. Out of the 13 studies, four were classified as RCT parallel studies, six were RCT crossover studies, two cohort parallel studies, and one cohort crossover study. The duration of the studies was variable, ranging from four weeks to one year, with six studies having a so-called \"washout period\" between the use of monobloc and bibloc MAD devices.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Both monobloc and bibloc devices show significant success rates in the treatment of mild to moderate OSA.</p>","PeriodicalId":38313,"journal":{"name":"Acta medica academica","volume":" ","pages":"286-292"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11831541/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142802454","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Workplace Factors Contributing to Professional Stress in Family Medicine.","authors":"Nataša Trifunović, Hasiba Erkočević, Elvira Hasanović, Hamza Jatić, Senada Džebo, Rabija Mehmedović, Nevena Todorović, Zaim Jatić","doi":"10.5644/ama2006-124.464","DOIUrl":"10.5644/ama2006-124.464","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Objectives: </strong>The main objective was to assess the relationship between sociodemographic and occupational factors and stress levels among healthcare workers in family medicine in Bosnia and Herzegovina, using the PSS-10-BH scale.</p><p><strong>Material and methods: </strong>A cross-sectional study was conducted using the PSS-10-BH questionnaire distributed via Google Forms to primary care nurses and physicians between July and August 2022.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The study included 272 participants, with a mean age of 44.7 (±10.55), predominantly women (86.8%) and physicians (58.8%). The mean PSS-10-BH total score for the sample was 21.26 (±6.77) ranging from 3 to 36. The linear regression model indicated male gender and older age showed an association with slightly lower stress levels. Marital status and the number of children showed a slight positive association with stress levels. Occupation (B=-3.068, 95%CI: -5.442 to -0.694, P=0.012) was associated with stress, with physicians tending to report lower stress levels compared to nurses. Years of work experience (B=0.060, 95%CI: -0.190 to 0.309, P=0.636), and patient load (B=0.082, 95%CI: 0.027 to 0.137, P=0.004) were associated with higher stress levels. The results suggest that work-related variables are significant predictors of stress levels as measured by the PSS-10-BH scale in this sample of healthcare workers. The included predictors explain 10% of the variability in the outcome, indicating additional unidentified contributing factors.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Occupational factors, particularly profession, work experience, and daily patient load, significantly influence stress levels in healthcare workers. Further research is needed to explore other potential influences and refine interventions aimed at managing stress in this population.</p>","PeriodicalId":38313,"journal":{"name":"Acta medica academica","volume":"53 3","pages":"343-351"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11831540/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143190447","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Ana Paric, Kresimir Tomic, Lejla Alidzanovic, Adnan Fojnica, Semir Vranic
{"title":"HPV-Related Cancers in Bosnia and Herzegovina: A Comprehensive Review.","authors":"Ana Paric, Kresimir Tomic, Lejla Alidzanovic, Adnan Fojnica, Semir Vranic","doi":"10.5644/ama2006-124.458","DOIUrl":"10.5644/ama2006-124.458","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This review assesses the burden of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancers in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BH), aiming to inform strategies for prevention and early detection. Despite the availability of highly effective HPV vaccines and screening programs, HPV-related cancers remain a significant public health burden worldwide. We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed and GLOBOCAN to identify all available data on HPV prevalence/genotype and HPV-related malignancies in BH, including information on HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening. A comprehensive literature search revealed limited data on HPV prevalence and HPV-related cancers, as well as the absence of a national HPV vaccination or cervical cancer screening program in BH. In the largest study with available data from BH, HPV prevalence was 43% among women undergoing routine gynecologic exams. HPV-16 was identified as the most common cause of cervical cancer. The HPV prevalence was 50% in head and neck cancer, with HPV-18 being the most prevalent subtype. HPV was detected in 80% of patients with colorectal cancer, and HPV-16 was the most common subtype. Conclusions. HPV-related cancers, particularly cervical cancer, represent a significant public health problem in BH. Implementation of a national HPV vaccination program, along with organized cervical cancer screening is essential to reduce HPV-related morbidity and mortality. Addressing systemic challenges, such as establishing a comprehensive cancer registry, is essential for effective HPV prevention and control. Raising public awareness about HPV infection, its consequences, and the importance of prevention is essential for vaccine acceptance and promoting healthy behaviors. By investing in HPV prevention, BH can significantly improve the health and well-being of its population, particularly women.</p>","PeriodicalId":38313,"journal":{"name":"Acta medica academica","volume":" ","pages":"237-273"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11831570/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142802443","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Anatomical Variations of the Vermiform Appendix.","authors":"Athanasios Sakellariadis, Foteini Sofou, Dimosthenis Chrysikos, Theodoros Sampsakos-Mariolis, Dimitrios Schizas, Theodoros Troupis, Dimitrios Filippou","doi":"10.5644/ama2006-124.461","DOIUrl":"10.5644/ama2006-124.461","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Objective: </strong>The aim of the present work is to systematically review and present the existing literature on anatomical variations of the appendix.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Detailed research was conducted in the PubMed medical database, using the terms \"Appendix\" AND \"Anatomical variations\", and 74 articles were initially revealed. After the application of the inclusion and exclusion criteria, all the non-related articles were excluded, and thus 40 articles were finally selected.</p><p><strong>Discussion: </strong>The data analysis suggests that the location and form of the appendix may significantly vary among individuals. Common anatomical variations concerning its location include retrocecal, pelvic, retro-ileal, pre-ileal, prececal and paracecal appendices. The first two variants are the most common, although there is a discrepancy regarding their exact incidence. Rarely, the appendix may be intracecal, intramural, subhepatic or located in the left abdomen; mismatches of the McBurney guide point with the base of the appendix are also recorded. Concerning the appendix's form, several variations in the length, diameter, shape and number of appendages (doubling, tripling) may be present.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>As evident from the presentation of the results, the vermiform appendix presents a wide variety and number of anatomical variations. The latter are of particular clinical importance and should be known to doctors - especially surgeons - to avoid complications in clinical practice.</p>","PeriodicalId":38313,"journal":{"name":"Acta medica academica","volume":" ","pages":"335-342"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11831545/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142886058","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Resilience in the Face of War: a Collaborative Autoethnography of a Ukrainian Refugee Student's Journey through Europe Striving to Find Oneself.","authors":"Mariia Shmatkova, Darko Hren, Livia Puljak","doi":"10.5644/ama2006-124.462","DOIUrl":"10.5644/ama2006-124.462","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Objective: </strong>This study presents the personal experience of a 19-year-old student who fled the war in Ukraine, journeyed across multiple countries, and ultimately enrolled in a university psychology program in Croatia.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A collaborative autoethnographic approach was employed to explore the student's experience as a war refugee, traversing Europe, and beginning university life in a foreign country. Data were collected through the student's reflective writing. A thematic analysis was conducted to identify key emotional and experiential themes.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The narrative provides a comprehensive account of the student's emotional and physical journey, beginning with the onset of war in Ukraine and progressing through her travels in Romania, Bulgaria, the United Kingdom, and Ireland, before settling in Croatia. Thematic analysis revealed a complex interaction of emotions, family dynamics, community support, and the challenges of adapting to a new environment. Despite numerous obstacles, the student and her family remained hopeful and proactive in seeking a better future. The narrative also underscores the therapeutic impact of sharing personal stories.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>The findings highlight storytelling as a powerful medium for personal healing. Moreover, the study emphasizes the collective importance of individual narratives in fostering empathy, understanding, and connection across diverse communities. The narrative underscores the resilience of individuals and the crucial role of compassion and support in times of crisis. This resilience is not just about surviving but finding ways to thrive and contribute meaningfully despite the uncertainties and disruptions caused by the war.</p>","PeriodicalId":38313,"journal":{"name":"Acta medica academica","volume":" ","pages":"352-372"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11831547/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142886158","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Inborn Errors of Immunity: New Insights.","authors":"Jelena Roganović, Gaia Bellesi","doi":"10.5644/ama2006-124.460","DOIUrl":"10.5644/ama2006-124.460","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This paper presents a comprehensive and updated overview of inborn errors of immunity (IEIs), focusing on the optimal treatment strategies. IEIs or primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) are a heterogeneous group of approximately 500 disorders, classified into ten categories according to the affected component of the immune system. The clinical presentation varies, based on the type of the disorder and the patient's age. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent recurrent severe infections and potential organ damage. Treatment strategies, including hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, enzyme replacement therapy, thymus trans-plantation, or gene therapy, primarily focus to restore immune function. Emerging therapeutic approaches aiming to modify the immune response comprise small molecule inhibitors, biological therapies, and adoptive transfer of virus-specific T-cells. Given the complexity and diversity of PIDs, as well as evolving novel therapies, continuous education of the physicians on timely diagnosis and effective intervention, significantly improves patients' management and outcomes. CONCLUSION: Early diagnosis and individualized treatment plans are crucial for effectively managing IEIs. As treatment options evolve, ongoing education and the integration of new approaches are key to improving patient outcomes and quality of life.</p>","PeriodicalId":38313,"journal":{"name":"Acta medica academica","volume":" ","pages":"293-302"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11831537/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142886067","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Morphometric Analysis of the Greater Palatine Foramina in the Bosnia and Herzegovina Population.","authors":"Alma Voljevica, Elvira Talović, Eldan Kapur","doi":"10.5644/ama2006-124.459","DOIUrl":"10.5644/ama2006-124.459","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Objective: </strong>The goal of this research was to examine the morphological characteristics and exact anatomical positioning of the greater palatine foramen (GPF), with reference to nearby anatomical landmarks.</p><p><strong>Material and method: </strong>The research was performed on dry human skulls belonging to the Bosnian and Herzegovina population, using digital vernier calipers. The study began by noting the GPF's position relative to the maxillary molars, then measuring its distance from the median palatine suture (MPS), the incisive fossa (IF), the posterior border of the hard palate (PBHP), and the posterior nasal spine (PNS). Measurements were conducted bilaterally, and afterwards the data were analyzed using Student's t-test and Chi-squared test. A statistical significance was set at P<0.05.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The statistical analysis revealed that: the distance of the greater palatine foramen (GPF) from the midline is approximately 15.80±1.28 mm on the right side and 15.86±1.19 mm on the left side. The distance of the GPF from the incisive fossa measures about 40.12±2.19 mm on the right side and 40.34±2.08 mm on the left side. The GPF is positioned around 4.00±1.07 mm on the right side and 4.35±1.34 mm on the left side from the posterior border of the hard palate. Lastly, the distance from the GPF to the posterior nasal spine means 17.55±1.99 mm on the right side and 17.61±1.81 mm on the left side in the entire study population. The highest percentage of skulls (73.05%) showed the GPF positioned at the level of the third molar.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The findings of this study further emphasize the variations in the location of the greater palatine foramen and underline the importance of thorough preoperative assessment in patients undergoing maxillofacial surgeries and regional block anesthesia.</p>","PeriodicalId":38313,"journal":{"name":"Acta medica academica","volume":" ","pages":"320-327"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11831567/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142878271","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A Rare Case of Ruptured Heterotopic Pregnancy after Natural Conception Demanding Immediate Attention.","authors":"Dionysios Galatis, Christos Beneko, Konstantina Kalaitzi, Panagiotis-Konstantinos Karachalios, Ioannis Chatzipanagiotis, Ippokratis Diamantakis, Foteini Anifantaki, Vasileios Batsakoutsas, Nikolaos Kiriakopoulos","doi":"10.5644/ama2006-124.451","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.5644/ama2006-124.451","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Objective: </strong>We present the case of a ruptured heterotopic pregnancy after natural conception and its management during hospitalization.</p><p><strong>Case report: </strong>The patient presented to the emergency department of our hospital with symptoms of lower abdominal pain and vaginal blood loss. She reported a confirmed intrauterine pregnancy at 8 weeks' gestation following natural conception. The patient was admitted to the hospital with the diagnosis of a ruptured ovarian cyst. Due to hemodynamic instability, an urgent exploratory laparotomy was performed. The histological review showed an ectopic fallopian pregnancy, confirming the final diagnosis of an heterotopic pregnancy.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Heterotopic pregnancy is a very rare condition, even more so if it happens spontaneously. As a result, it has been insufficiently studied in relation to proper management and timely diagnosis.</p>","PeriodicalId":38313,"journal":{"name":"Acta medica academica","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-09-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143366117","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}