Cevdet Kocogullari - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Cevdet Kocogullari

Neck intramuscular haemangioma is a benign, uncommon neoplasm arising most frequently in the mass... more Neck intramuscular haemangioma is a benign, uncommon neoplasm arising most frequently in the masseter muscles. It usually appears as an enlarging mass without specific clinical features and is therefore frequently misdiagnosed. We report a case of recurrent intramuscular haemangioma in a 22-year-old man. The patient, operated due to swelling on the right side of neck 5 years ago had intermittent painful recurrent swelling in the same region for 2 months. Preoperative evaluation included routine physical examination, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging. The patient was treated with direct mass approaches. Histopathological diagnosis was capillary-type intramuscular haemangioma. Postoperative courses were uneventful, and the patient was discharged within a week. Clinical and ultrasonographic follow-ups were negative for 2 years. Preoperative diagnosis of neck intramuscular haemangioma is difficult because of its rarity and non-specific clinical findings. Large surgical excision...

Neck intramuscular haemangioma is a benign, uncommon neoplasm arising most frequently in the mass... more Neck intramuscular haemangioma is a benign, uncommon neoplasm arising most frequently in the masseter muscles. It usually appears as an enlarging mass without specific clinical features and is therefore frequently misdiagnosed. We report a case of recurrent intramuscular haemangioma in a 22-year-old man. The patient, operated due to swelling on the right side of neck 5 years ago had intermittent painful recurrent swelling in the same region for 2 months. Preoperative evaluation included routine physical examination, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging. The patient was treated with direct mass approaches. Histopathological diagnosis was capillary-type intramuscular haemangioma. Postoperative courses were uneventful, and the patient was discharged within a week. Clinical and ultrasonographic follow-ups were negative for 2 years. Preoperative diagnosis of neck intramuscular haemangioma is difficult because of its rarity and non-specific clinical findings. Large surgical excision...

Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, 2008

Abdominal vascular injuries are among the most challenging and lethal injuries in traumatized pat... more Abdominal vascular injuries are among the most challenging and lethal injuries in traumatized patients. Inferior vena cava is the most frequently injured vein during the blunt or penetrating trauma. The primary repair, end to end anastomosis, endovascular stenting, or graft interposition with autogenous or synthetic materials should be considered in selected cases. However, in cases the synthetic graft was preferred, intestinal contaminations due to small or large bowel perforation accompanying the trauma have been cited as a limiting factor for the use of such grafts as in the current case. However, a previous history of lower leg variceal surgery prevents the use of great saphenous vein as a graft. So in the present case, the authors report a patient with inferior vena cava injury repaired with autogenous peritoneo-fascial graft. The authors have used APF graft in traumatic inferior vena cava injury for the first time.

Vascular, 2014

Lymphatic complications, lymphocele and lymphorrhea being the leading, are generally encountered ... more Lymphatic complications, lymphocele and lymphorrhea being the leading, are generally encountered after vascular interventions and surgeries. The present study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of vacuum-assisted-closure (VAC) therapy, which we frequently prefer as the first-choice treatment for such complications. Among patients undergoing peripheral vascular intervention or surgery between January 2008 and February 2012, the medical files of 21 patients who received VAC therapy or other treatment due to symptomatic lymphatic complications were retrospectively analyzed and the results were discussed. Group I consisted of 10 patients (three with lymphocele and seven with lymphorrhea) who underwent VAC therapy as the first-choice treatment, Group II consisted of 11 patients of which 7 patients received various therapies before VAC therapy and 4 patients received other treatments alone. The patients who received VAC therapy as the primary therapy demonstrated more rapid wound healing, early drainage control, and shorter hospital stay. The mean hospital medical cost was €1038 (range, €739-1826) for the patients who primarily underwent VAC therapy; it was calculated to be €2137 (range, €1610-3130) for the other patients (p=0.001). In addition to its safety and good clinical outcomes, VAC therapy also has economic advantages and should be the primary method for the treatment of lymphatic complications.

The Tohoku Journal of Experimental Medicine, 2006

ATES, A., ÖZYAZICIOĞLU, A., YEKELER, I., CEVIZ, M., ERKUT, B., KARAPOLAT, S., KOÇOĞULLARI, C.U. a... more ATES, A., ÖZYAZICIOĞLU, A., YEKELER, I., CEVIZ, M., ERKUT, B., KARAPOLAT, S., KOÇOĞULLARI, C.U. and KOCAK, H. Primary and Secondary Patency Rates and Complications of Upper Extremity Arteriovenous Fistulae Created for Hemodialysis. Tohoku J. Exp. Med., 2006, 210 (2), 91-97

The Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeon, 2008

The aim of this experimental study was to investigate the possible protective effect of dantrolen... more The aim of this experimental study was to investigate the possible protective effect of dantrolene on neuronal injury induced by aortic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). Nineteen rabbits were divided into three groups: sham (group 1, n = 5, no I/R), control (group 2, n = 7, only I/R) and dantrolene (group 3, n = 7, dantrolene + I/R). Abdominal aortic occlusion between the renal arteries and iliac bifurcations was carried out for 30 min. The spinal cord functions of the subjects were assessed using the Tarlov Scale. Blood and cord tissue samples were taken for biochemical and histopathological evaluation. Tarlov scores in group 3 were significantly higher than in group 2 ( P < 0.05). In group 3, the MDA levels of the spinal cord decreased significantly compared to those of group 2 ( P < 0.05). In rabbits with I/R (group 2), the GSH levels of the spinal cord decreased significantly compared to those of group 1 ( P < 0.01), but dantrolene pretreatment significantly prevented a decrease in GSH levels. Histopathological examination showed that group 3 had less vascular proliferation, hemorrhage, edema and neuron loss than group 2. It was concluded that dantrolene applied after ischemia might help protect the spinal cord against ischemia/reperfusion injury.

The Heart Surgery Forum, 2009

Gastrointestinal ischemia (GII) after heart surgery is a rare but devastating condition. The aim ... more Gastrointestinal ischemia (GII) after heart surgery is a rare but devastating condition. The aim of this study was to compare the occurrence of GII after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) performed off-pump (OPCAB) vs on-pump (ONCAB). We retrospectively evaluated 2625 adult patients who underwent isolated coronary artery surgery during a 6-year period. The OPCAB group included 658 patients and the ONCAB group 1967 patients. Patients were evaluated, and GII, morbidity, and mortality in the 2 groups were compared. GII developed in 0.4% (7 of 1967) patients in the ONCAB group and in 0.2% (1 of 658) patients in the OPCAB group (P = .28). Mortality rates due to GII were 0.2% (4 of 1967) in the ONCAB group, and no deaths occurred in the OPCAB group (P < .04). Postoperative atrial fibrillation incidence with GII was 100% (7 of 7) in ONCAB group and 0% (0 of 1) in the OPCAB group (P < .01). Compared to ONCAB, the OPCAB procedure has lower GII related mortality rates, which is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in the postoperative period of CABG surgery.

The Heart Surgery Forum, 2009

In this randomized controlled study, we investigated the effects of autologous Hemobag blood tran... more In this randomized controlled study, we investigated the effects of autologous Hemobag blood transfusion (AHBT) and allogenic blood transfusion (ABT) in off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) surgery. Sixty patients who underwent surgery between February 2008 and August 2008 were randomized into 2 groups. The AHBT group (n = 30) consisted of patients who received autologous Hemobag blood transfusion, and the ABT group (n = 30) consisted of patients who received allogenic blood transfusion. All patients underwent OPCAB via sternotomy. The time to extubation, chest tube drainage volume, postoperative white blood cell counts, amount of blood transfusion, sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein concentration, postoperative temperature, and the presence of atelectasis were recorded in the intensive care unit. Intraoperative bleeding and fluid resuscitation were similar in the 2 groups (P > .05); however, there were significant decreases in postoperative blood loss, extubation period, postoperative white cell counts, sedimentation rate, incidence of atelectasis, C-reactive protein, and fever in the AHBT group compared with the ABT group (P < .05). The rate of atrial fibrillation in the AHBT group tended to be lower than in the ABT group. Autologous blood transfusion in OPCAB may be beneficial in certain cardiac surgery patients; however, these beneficial effects require further study to be proved.

The Heart Surgery Forum, 2007

We prospectively examined whether surgical treatment of secundum atrial septal defects in patient... more We prospectively examined whether surgical treatment of secundum atrial septal defects in patients 30 years old improves their early- and mid-term clinical outcomes. Our clinical experience is reviewed to assess the importance of surgical management in elderly patients with atrial septal defect. We analyzed 41 patients older than 30 years of age who underwent surgical correction of a secundum atrial septal defect. To evaluate the effects of surgical treatment, we compared functional capacity, diuretic administration, rhythm status, and echocardiographic parameters of all patients before and after the operation. The median follow-up period was 4.2 years (range, 6 months-7 years). There were no operative deaths. Functional class in most of the patients improved after operation. Two patients reverted to normal sinus rhythm after the operation. There was only one new atrial fibrilation among patients in the postoperative term. Right atrial and right ventricular dimensions and pulmonary artery pressures were significantly decreased, and ejection fractions were significantly increased after the operation. The need for diuretic treatment was decreased after surgical repair. No residual intracardiac shunts were identified during follow-up. There were no cerebrovascular thromboembolic accidents in the early postoperative period. Surgical closure of atrial septal defects in patients over 30 years old can improve their clinical status and prevent right ventricular dilatation and insufficiency. The operation must be performed as soon as possible, even if the symptoms or the hemodynamic impact seem to be minimal.

The Heart Surgery Forum, 2007

Atypical cardiac myxomas are rare occurrences and may present with a variety of clinical manifest... more Atypical cardiac myxomas are rare occurrences and may present with a variety of clinical manifestations depending on the location and morphology. A 46-year-old woman had a 4 x 3 x 2-cm myxoma originating from the superior wall of the left atrium, found by echocardiography and multislice tomography. The tumor was successfully treated by surgical excision. The resected tumor was a well-defined encapsulated mass with a narrow-base stalk originating from the right wall of the left atrium in between the right upper and lower pulmonary vein. The patient recovered without complication and was discharged 6 days after the operation. At 1-year follow-up, echocardiography revealed normal cardiac function without reccurence in terms of mass. Although up to 80% of myxomas are localized in the left atrium, of which 75% involve in the interatrial septum, it should not be forgotten that myxomas can appear in an atypical localization, as occurred in our case.

The Heart Surgery Forum, 2008

We investigated the effectiveness of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) therapy o... more We investigated the effectiveness of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) therapy on pain during the first 24 hours after a cardiac surgical procedure. A total of 60 patients who had undergone median sternotomy (MS) for coronary artery bypass graft (n = 55) or valve repair surgery (n = 5) were randomized to receive TENS and pharmacologic analgesia, placebo TENS and pharmacologic analgesia, or pharmacologic analgesia alone (control group). For each group we recorded severity of pain, analgesic intake, and pulmonary complications. Pethidine HCL and metamizol sodium were administered for postsurgical analgesia. Pain after MS was measured on a 10-point visual analogue scale (VAS). Mean scores in the TENS, placebo TENS, and control groups, respectively, were 5.70 +/- 1.78, 5.75 +/- 1.83, and 5.95 +/- 1.63 before treatment (P >.05); 2.40 +/- 1.18, 3.90 +/- 1.48, and 3.55 +/- 1.60 on the 12th hour of the intervention (P < .05); and 1.25 +/- 0.91, 2.30 +/- 1.34, and 2.15 +/- 1.13 on the 24th hour of the intervention (P < .05). The mean VAS scores decreased within each group (P < .05). However, the mean VAS scores decreased much more significantly in the TENS group (P < .05). Metamizol sodium intake was 1.05 +/- 0.39 g, 2.30 +/- 1.08 g, and 2.90 +/- 1.20 g and pethidine HCL intake was 17 +/- 16.25 mg, 57 +/- 21.54 mg, and 51.50 +/- 18.99 mg, respectively, in the TENS, placebo TENS, and control groups. Metamizol sodium and pethidine HCL intake was least in the TENS group (P < .05). Postoperative complications were observed in 6 (10%) of patients. The most frequent complication was atelectasia. TENS was more effective than placebo TENS or control treatments in decreasing pain and limiting opioid and nonopioid medication intake during the first 24-hour period following MS.

Surgery Today, 2008

We designed an experimental study to show the effects of some agents in order to prevent reperfus... more We designed an experimental study to show the effects of some agents in order to prevent reperfusion injury of the spinal cord. Twenty rabbits were used and were divided into two groups in our study. Infrarenal abdominal aortic occlusion, between renal arteries and iliac bifurcations, was applied to the subjects in group 1 for only 30 min; in the group 2 subjects, on the other hand, intra-aortic diltiazem, N-acetylcysteine, and catalase combinations were applied after infrarenal abdominal aortic occlusion. The spinal cord functions of the subjects were assessed at the 48th hour after the operation according to Tarlov scoring, then cord tissue samples were taken for biochemical and histopathological studies. The group 2 subjects had better neurological functions than group 1 subjects (P < 0.01). In group 2; superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase levels increased, while malondialdehyde and xanthine oxidase levels decreased as compared with group 1 (P < 0.05). A histopathological examination showed the group 2 samples to have fewer bleeding points and less neuron loss. We concluded that antioxidant agent combinations (diltiazem, N-acetylcysteine, and catalase) applied after ischemia might thus help protect the spinal cord against ischemia and reperfusion injury.

Renal Failure, 2011

Background: This study was designed to use carnitine for preventing deposition of end products of... more Background: This study was designed to use carnitine for preventing deposition of end products of lipid peroxidation in rat models in the prevention of ischemia-reperfusion (IR) damage frequently seen following operations of infrarenal abdominal aorta (AA). Methods: Forty male rats of Sprague-Dawley type were evenly (n = 8) randomized to five groups: sham laparotomy (SHAM), carnitine control (CC), aortic IR (AIR), AIR + low-dose carnitine (AIR+LDC), and AIR + high-dose carnitine (AIR+HDC). Results: Compared to other groups, serum creatinine levels of AIR group were significantly higher. Also tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) levels of AIR group were significantly higher compared to SHAM, CC, and AIR+HDC groups. In histopathological examination, although tubular necrosis atrophy and tubular degeneration observed in AIR group showed regression with low-dose carnitine, tubular necrosis atrophy, tubular degeneration, glomerular damage, and vascular congestion thrombosis decreased with high-dose carnitine. Total score of histological damage was significantly higher in AIR, AIR+LDC, and AIR+HDC groups compared to SHAM and CC groups. Moreover, total score of histological damage was significantly lower in AIR+HDC group than AIR+LDC group. Conclusions: In this study, we showed carnitine can partially prevent renal damage in infrarenal AIR models of rats. This result may open new prospects to us in the prevention of renal IR damage during surgery of aorta.

Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 2008

To compare the histological changes occurring after three different treatment modalities for tela... more To compare the histological changes occurring after three different treatment modalities for telangiectasias. Thirty 16-week-old New Zealand white rabbits weighing 2.4-3.1 kg were enrolled in the study. The rabbits were divided into three groups. The group 1 received sclerotherapy, he group 2 received phototherapy, and group 3 received high-power diode laser treatments. All animals were treated on the right dorsal marginal ear vein. Biopsies were taken on days 1, 2, 7, and 30 post-treatment, and histopathogical evaluation was performed. Clinical and histological thrombosis occurred between days 1 and 7 in all groups. Superficial necrosis, neutrophil infiltration, and recanalization were mostly seen in group 3, whereas thrombosis was prominent in groups 1 and 2. All of the methods tested appear to have similar mechanisms of action, but had differing clinical and histological results. Phototherapy and laser treatment are non-invasive and do not require an exact, pinpoint technique, in contrast to sclerotherapy. However, sclerotherapy and phototherapy showed better results, especially with regard to recanalization.

Journal of Electrocardiology, 2007

The heart surgery forum, 2007

Infective endocarditis is a serious septic disease that can be life threatening unless effective ... more Infective endocarditis is a serious septic disease that can be life threatening unless effective therapy is instituted following the correct diagnosis. The complication of septic embolism and mycotic aneurysm in patients with infective endocarditis may increase morbidity and mortality. We present a case of peroneal artery aneurysm with coincident double native heart valve endocarditis in a patient.

Heart, 2005

To assess the effectiveness of subxiphoid pericardiostomy in the treatment and diagnosis of peric... more To assess the effectiveness of subxiphoid pericardiostomy in the treatment and diagnosis of pericardial effusions. 368 patients who underwent subxiphoid pericardiostomy and tube drainage for cardiac tamponade, moderate to severe pericardial effusion, or suspicious bacterial aetiology were retrospectively analysed. Biopsies of the pericardium and fluid samples for diagnostic tests were obtained from each patient. The mean age of the patients was 38.4 years, and the male to female ratio was 220:148. The pericardial effusion was classified by echocardiography as severe in 53% of the patients, moderate in 43%, and mild in 4%. The incidence of cardiac tamponade was 25%. Myocardial injury requiring sternotomy occurred as an operative complication in 0.8% of the patients and recurrent effusion necessitating further surgical intervention developed in 10% of patients. Histopathological examination and the polymerase chain reaction of specimens of pericardium and fluid were helpful for establishing a diagnosis in 90% of patients with malignancy and 92% of patients with tuberculous pericarditis. The overall 30 day mortality rate was 0.8%. Patients were followed up for at least one year. Pericardial constriction requiring pericardiectomy developed in 3% of the patients. Pericardial effusions of various causes can be safely, effectively, and quickly managed with subxiphoid pericardiostomy in both adults and children.

European Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, 2008

We aimed to evaluate whether surgical intracoronary shunt protects myocardium in patients with mo... more We aimed to evaluate whether surgical intracoronary shunt protects myocardium in patients with moderate left ventricular dysfunction (MLVD). Thirty-nine patients consisted the shunt group and 43 patients consisted the shuntless group. Troponin I, CK, and CK-MB were measured preoperatively, and at 6 and 24h postoperatively. Cardiac enzymes, rate of postoperative atrial fibrillation (AF) and third month ejection fraction (EF) were compared between the groups. There were no significant differences between the groups for preoperative troponin I, CK, CK-MB, and postoperative CK levels (at 6 and 24h). Postoperative troponin I and CK-MB levels were significantly lower in the shunt group (p<0.001). Although preoperative EF of the patients were not significantly different between groups, the third month EF were significantly increased in both groups, and this increment was significantly higher in the shunt group than the shuntless group. One patient (2.3%) died in the shuntless group whereas there was no death in the shunt group. Intracoronary shunt has protective effects on myocardium in patients with moderate left ventricular dysfunction.

The Annals of Thoracic Surgery, 2013

Neck intramuscular haemangioma is a benign, uncommon neoplasm arising most frequently in the mass... more Neck intramuscular haemangioma is a benign, uncommon neoplasm arising most frequently in the masseter muscles. It usually appears as an enlarging mass without specific clinical features and is therefore frequently misdiagnosed. We report a case of recurrent intramuscular haemangioma in a 22-year-old man. The patient, operated due to swelling on the right side of neck 5 years ago had intermittent painful recurrent swelling in the same region for 2 months. Preoperative evaluation included routine physical examination, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging. The patient was treated with direct mass approaches. Histopathological diagnosis was capillary-type intramuscular haemangioma. Postoperative courses were uneventful, and the patient was discharged within a week. Clinical and ultrasonographic follow-ups were negative for 2 years. Preoperative diagnosis of neck intramuscular haemangioma is difficult because of its rarity and non-specific clinical findings. Large surgical excision...

Neck intramuscular haemangioma is a benign, uncommon neoplasm arising most frequently in the mass... more Neck intramuscular haemangioma is a benign, uncommon neoplasm arising most frequently in the masseter muscles. It usually appears as an enlarging mass without specific clinical features and is therefore frequently misdiagnosed. We report a case of recurrent intramuscular haemangioma in a 22-year-old man. The patient, operated due to swelling on the right side of neck 5 years ago had intermittent painful recurrent swelling in the same region for 2 months. Preoperative evaluation included routine physical examination, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging. The patient was treated with direct mass approaches. Histopathological diagnosis was capillary-type intramuscular haemangioma. Postoperative courses were uneventful, and the patient was discharged within a week. Clinical and ultrasonographic follow-ups were negative for 2 years. Preoperative diagnosis of neck intramuscular haemangioma is difficult because of its rarity and non-specific clinical findings. Large surgical excision...

Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, 2008

Abdominal vascular injuries are among the most challenging and lethal injuries in traumatized pat... more Abdominal vascular injuries are among the most challenging and lethal injuries in traumatized patients. Inferior vena cava is the most frequently injured vein during the blunt or penetrating trauma. The primary repair, end to end anastomosis, endovascular stenting, or graft interposition with autogenous or synthetic materials should be considered in selected cases. However, in cases the synthetic graft was preferred, intestinal contaminations due to small or large bowel perforation accompanying the trauma have been cited as a limiting factor for the use of such grafts as in the current case. However, a previous history of lower leg variceal surgery prevents the use of great saphenous vein as a graft. So in the present case, the authors report a patient with inferior vena cava injury repaired with autogenous peritoneo-fascial graft. The authors have used APF graft in traumatic inferior vena cava injury for the first time.

Vascular, 2014

Lymphatic complications, lymphocele and lymphorrhea being the leading, are generally encountered ... more Lymphatic complications, lymphocele and lymphorrhea being the leading, are generally encountered after vascular interventions and surgeries. The present study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of vacuum-assisted-closure (VAC) therapy, which we frequently prefer as the first-choice treatment for such complications. Among patients undergoing peripheral vascular intervention or surgery between January 2008 and February 2012, the medical files of 21 patients who received VAC therapy or other treatment due to symptomatic lymphatic complications were retrospectively analyzed and the results were discussed. Group I consisted of 10 patients (three with lymphocele and seven with lymphorrhea) who underwent VAC therapy as the first-choice treatment, Group II consisted of 11 patients of which 7 patients received various therapies before VAC therapy and 4 patients received other treatments alone. The patients who received VAC therapy as the primary therapy demonstrated more rapid wound healing, early drainage control, and shorter hospital stay. The mean hospital medical cost was €1038 (range, €739-1826) for the patients who primarily underwent VAC therapy; it was calculated to be €2137 (range, €1610-3130) for the other patients (p=0.001). In addition to its safety and good clinical outcomes, VAC therapy also has economic advantages and should be the primary method for the treatment of lymphatic complications.

The Tohoku Journal of Experimental Medicine, 2006

ATES, A., ÖZYAZICIOĞLU, A., YEKELER, I., CEVIZ, M., ERKUT, B., KARAPOLAT, S., KOÇOĞULLARI, C.U. a... more ATES, A., ÖZYAZICIOĞLU, A., YEKELER, I., CEVIZ, M., ERKUT, B., KARAPOLAT, S., KOÇOĞULLARI, C.U. and KOCAK, H. Primary and Secondary Patency Rates and Complications of Upper Extremity Arteriovenous Fistulae Created for Hemodialysis. Tohoku J. Exp. Med., 2006, 210 (2), 91-97

The Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeon, 2008

The aim of this experimental study was to investigate the possible protective effect of dantrolen... more The aim of this experimental study was to investigate the possible protective effect of dantrolene on neuronal injury induced by aortic ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). Nineteen rabbits were divided into three groups: sham (group 1, n = 5, no I/R), control (group 2, n = 7, only I/R) and dantrolene (group 3, n = 7, dantrolene + I/R). Abdominal aortic occlusion between the renal arteries and iliac bifurcations was carried out for 30 min. The spinal cord functions of the subjects were assessed using the Tarlov Scale. Blood and cord tissue samples were taken for biochemical and histopathological evaluation. Tarlov scores in group 3 were significantly higher than in group 2 ( P < 0.05). In group 3, the MDA levels of the spinal cord decreased significantly compared to those of group 2 ( P < 0.05). In rabbits with I/R (group 2), the GSH levels of the spinal cord decreased significantly compared to those of group 1 ( P < 0.01), but dantrolene pretreatment significantly prevented a decrease in GSH levels. Histopathological examination showed that group 3 had less vascular proliferation, hemorrhage, edema and neuron loss than group 2. It was concluded that dantrolene applied after ischemia might help protect the spinal cord against ischemia/reperfusion injury.

The Heart Surgery Forum, 2009

Gastrointestinal ischemia (GII) after heart surgery is a rare but devastating condition. The aim ... more Gastrointestinal ischemia (GII) after heart surgery is a rare but devastating condition. The aim of this study was to compare the occurrence of GII after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) performed off-pump (OPCAB) vs on-pump (ONCAB). We retrospectively evaluated 2625 adult patients who underwent isolated coronary artery surgery during a 6-year period. The OPCAB group included 658 patients and the ONCAB group 1967 patients. Patients were evaluated, and GII, morbidity, and mortality in the 2 groups were compared. GII developed in 0.4% (7 of 1967) patients in the ONCAB group and in 0.2% (1 of 658) patients in the OPCAB group (P = .28). Mortality rates due to GII were 0.2% (4 of 1967) in the ONCAB group, and no deaths occurred in the OPCAB group (P < .04). Postoperative atrial fibrillation incidence with GII was 100% (7 of 7) in ONCAB group and 0% (0 of 1) in the OPCAB group (P < .01). Compared to ONCAB, the OPCAB procedure has lower GII related mortality rates, which is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in the postoperative period of CABG surgery.

The Heart Surgery Forum, 2009

In this randomized controlled study, we investigated the effects of autologous Hemobag blood tran... more In this randomized controlled study, we investigated the effects of autologous Hemobag blood transfusion (AHBT) and allogenic blood transfusion (ABT) in off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) surgery. Sixty patients who underwent surgery between February 2008 and August 2008 were randomized into 2 groups. The AHBT group (n = 30) consisted of patients who received autologous Hemobag blood transfusion, and the ABT group (n = 30) consisted of patients who received allogenic blood transfusion. All patients underwent OPCAB via sternotomy. The time to extubation, chest tube drainage volume, postoperative white blood cell counts, amount of blood transfusion, sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein concentration, postoperative temperature, and the presence of atelectasis were recorded in the intensive care unit. Intraoperative bleeding and fluid resuscitation were similar in the 2 groups (P > .05); however, there were significant decreases in postoperative blood loss, extubation period, postoperative white cell counts, sedimentation rate, incidence of atelectasis, C-reactive protein, and fever in the AHBT group compared with the ABT group (P < .05). The rate of atrial fibrillation in the AHBT group tended to be lower than in the ABT group. Autologous blood transfusion in OPCAB may be beneficial in certain cardiac surgery patients; however, these beneficial effects require further study to be proved.

The Heart Surgery Forum, 2007

We prospectively examined whether surgical treatment of secundum atrial septal defects in patient... more We prospectively examined whether surgical treatment of secundum atrial septal defects in patients 30 years old improves their early- and mid-term clinical outcomes. Our clinical experience is reviewed to assess the importance of surgical management in elderly patients with atrial septal defect. We analyzed 41 patients older than 30 years of age who underwent surgical correction of a secundum atrial septal defect. To evaluate the effects of surgical treatment, we compared functional capacity, diuretic administration, rhythm status, and echocardiographic parameters of all patients before and after the operation. The median follow-up period was 4.2 years (range, 6 months-7 years). There were no operative deaths. Functional class in most of the patients improved after operation. Two patients reverted to normal sinus rhythm after the operation. There was only one new atrial fibrilation among patients in the postoperative term. Right atrial and right ventricular dimensions and pulmonary artery pressures were significantly decreased, and ejection fractions were significantly increased after the operation. The need for diuretic treatment was decreased after surgical repair. No residual intracardiac shunts were identified during follow-up. There were no cerebrovascular thromboembolic accidents in the early postoperative period. Surgical closure of atrial septal defects in patients over 30 years old can improve their clinical status and prevent right ventricular dilatation and insufficiency. The operation must be performed as soon as possible, even if the symptoms or the hemodynamic impact seem to be minimal.

The Heart Surgery Forum, 2007

Atypical cardiac myxomas are rare occurrences and may present with a variety of clinical manifest... more Atypical cardiac myxomas are rare occurrences and may present with a variety of clinical manifestations depending on the location and morphology. A 46-year-old woman had a 4 x 3 x 2-cm myxoma originating from the superior wall of the left atrium, found by echocardiography and multislice tomography. The tumor was successfully treated by surgical excision. The resected tumor was a well-defined encapsulated mass with a narrow-base stalk originating from the right wall of the left atrium in between the right upper and lower pulmonary vein. The patient recovered without complication and was discharged 6 days after the operation. At 1-year follow-up, echocardiography revealed normal cardiac function without reccurence in terms of mass. Although up to 80% of myxomas are localized in the left atrium, of which 75% involve in the interatrial septum, it should not be forgotten that myxomas can appear in an atypical localization, as occurred in our case.

The Heart Surgery Forum, 2008

We investigated the effectiveness of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) therapy o... more We investigated the effectiveness of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) therapy on pain during the first 24 hours after a cardiac surgical procedure. A total of 60 patients who had undergone median sternotomy (MS) for coronary artery bypass graft (n = 55) or valve repair surgery (n = 5) were randomized to receive TENS and pharmacologic analgesia, placebo TENS and pharmacologic analgesia, or pharmacologic analgesia alone (control group). For each group we recorded severity of pain, analgesic intake, and pulmonary complications. Pethidine HCL and metamizol sodium were administered for postsurgical analgesia. Pain after MS was measured on a 10-point visual analogue scale (VAS). Mean scores in the TENS, placebo TENS, and control groups, respectively, were 5.70 +/- 1.78, 5.75 +/- 1.83, and 5.95 +/- 1.63 before treatment (P >.05); 2.40 +/- 1.18, 3.90 +/- 1.48, and 3.55 +/- 1.60 on the 12th hour of the intervention (P < .05); and 1.25 +/- 0.91, 2.30 +/- 1.34, and 2.15 +/- 1.13 on the 24th hour of the intervention (P < .05). The mean VAS scores decreased within each group (P < .05). However, the mean VAS scores decreased much more significantly in the TENS group (P < .05). Metamizol sodium intake was 1.05 +/- 0.39 g, 2.30 +/- 1.08 g, and 2.90 +/- 1.20 g and pethidine HCL intake was 17 +/- 16.25 mg, 57 +/- 21.54 mg, and 51.50 +/- 18.99 mg, respectively, in the TENS, placebo TENS, and control groups. Metamizol sodium and pethidine HCL intake was least in the TENS group (P < .05). Postoperative complications were observed in 6 (10%) of patients. The most frequent complication was atelectasia. TENS was more effective than placebo TENS or control treatments in decreasing pain and limiting opioid and nonopioid medication intake during the first 24-hour period following MS.

Surgery Today, 2008

We designed an experimental study to show the effects of some agents in order to prevent reperfus... more We designed an experimental study to show the effects of some agents in order to prevent reperfusion injury of the spinal cord. Twenty rabbits were used and were divided into two groups in our study. Infrarenal abdominal aortic occlusion, between renal arteries and iliac bifurcations, was applied to the subjects in group 1 for only 30 min; in the group 2 subjects, on the other hand, intra-aortic diltiazem, N-acetylcysteine, and catalase combinations were applied after infrarenal abdominal aortic occlusion. The spinal cord functions of the subjects were assessed at the 48th hour after the operation according to Tarlov scoring, then cord tissue samples were taken for biochemical and histopathological studies. The group 2 subjects had better neurological functions than group 1 subjects (P < 0.01). In group 2; superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase levels increased, while malondialdehyde and xanthine oxidase levels decreased as compared with group 1 (P < 0.05). A histopathological examination showed the group 2 samples to have fewer bleeding points and less neuron loss. We concluded that antioxidant agent combinations (diltiazem, N-acetylcysteine, and catalase) applied after ischemia might thus help protect the spinal cord against ischemia and reperfusion injury.

Renal Failure, 2011

Background: This study was designed to use carnitine for preventing deposition of end products of... more Background: This study was designed to use carnitine for preventing deposition of end products of lipid peroxidation in rat models in the prevention of ischemia-reperfusion (IR) damage frequently seen following operations of infrarenal abdominal aorta (AA). Methods: Forty male rats of Sprague-Dawley type were evenly (n = 8) randomized to five groups: sham laparotomy (SHAM), carnitine control (CC), aortic IR (AIR), AIR + low-dose carnitine (AIR+LDC), and AIR + high-dose carnitine (AIR+HDC). Results: Compared to other groups, serum creatinine levels of AIR group were significantly higher. Also tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) levels of AIR group were significantly higher compared to SHAM, CC, and AIR+HDC groups. In histopathological examination, although tubular necrosis atrophy and tubular degeneration observed in AIR group showed regression with low-dose carnitine, tubular necrosis atrophy, tubular degeneration, glomerular damage, and vascular congestion thrombosis decreased with high-dose carnitine. Total score of histological damage was significantly higher in AIR, AIR+LDC, and AIR+HDC groups compared to SHAM and CC groups. Moreover, total score of histological damage was significantly lower in AIR+HDC group than AIR+LDC group. Conclusions: In this study, we showed carnitine can partially prevent renal damage in infrarenal AIR models of rats. This result may open new prospects to us in the prevention of renal IR damage during surgery of aorta.

Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 2008

To compare the histological changes occurring after three different treatment modalities for tela... more To compare the histological changes occurring after three different treatment modalities for telangiectasias. Thirty 16-week-old New Zealand white rabbits weighing 2.4-3.1 kg were enrolled in the study. The rabbits were divided into three groups. The group 1 received sclerotherapy, he group 2 received phototherapy, and group 3 received high-power diode laser treatments. All animals were treated on the right dorsal marginal ear vein. Biopsies were taken on days 1, 2, 7, and 30 post-treatment, and histopathogical evaluation was performed. Clinical and histological thrombosis occurred between days 1 and 7 in all groups. Superficial necrosis, neutrophil infiltration, and recanalization were mostly seen in group 3, whereas thrombosis was prominent in groups 1 and 2. All of the methods tested appear to have similar mechanisms of action, but had differing clinical and histological results. Phototherapy and laser treatment are non-invasive and do not require an exact, pinpoint technique, in contrast to sclerotherapy. However, sclerotherapy and phototherapy showed better results, especially with regard to recanalization.

Journal of Electrocardiology, 2007

The heart surgery forum, 2007

Infective endocarditis is a serious septic disease that can be life threatening unless effective ... more Infective endocarditis is a serious septic disease that can be life threatening unless effective therapy is instituted following the correct diagnosis. The complication of septic embolism and mycotic aneurysm in patients with infective endocarditis may increase morbidity and mortality. We present a case of peroneal artery aneurysm with coincident double native heart valve endocarditis in a patient.

Heart, 2005

To assess the effectiveness of subxiphoid pericardiostomy in the treatment and diagnosis of peric... more To assess the effectiveness of subxiphoid pericardiostomy in the treatment and diagnosis of pericardial effusions. 368 patients who underwent subxiphoid pericardiostomy and tube drainage for cardiac tamponade, moderate to severe pericardial effusion, or suspicious bacterial aetiology were retrospectively analysed. Biopsies of the pericardium and fluid samples for diagnostic tests were obtained from each patient. The mean age of the patients was 38.4 years, and the male to female ratio was 220:148. The pericardial effusion was classified by echocardiography as severe in 53% of the patients, moderate in 43%, and mild in 4%. The incidence of cardiac tamponade was 25%. Myocardial injury requiring sternotomy occurred as an operative complication in 0.8% of the patients and recurrent effusion necessitating further surgical intervention developed in 10% of patients. Histopathological examination and the polymerase chain reaction of specimens of pericardium and fluid were helpful for establishing a diagnosis in 90% of patients with malignancy and 92% of patients with tuberculous pericarditis. The overall 30 day mortality rate was 0.8%. Patients were followed up for at least one year. Pericardial constriction requiring pericardiectomy developed in 3% of the patients. Pericardial effusions of various causes can be safely, effectively, and quickly managed with subxiphoid pericardiostomy in both adults and children.

European Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, 2008

We aimed to evaluate whether surgical intracoronary shunt protects myocardium in patients with mo... more We aimed to evaluate whether surgical intracoronary shunt protects myocardium in patients with moderate left ventricular dysfunction (MLVD). Thirty-nine patients consisted the shunt group and 43 patients consisted the shuntless group. Troponin I, CK, and CK-MB were measured preoperatively, and at 6 and 24h postoperatively. Cardiac enzymes, rate of postoperative atrial fibrillation (AF) and third month ejection fraction (EF) were compared between the groups. There were no significant differences between the groups for preoperative troponin I, CK, CK-MB, and postoperative CK levels (at 6 and 24h). Postoperative troponin I and CK-MB levels were significantly lower in the shunt group (p<0.001). Although preoperative EF of the patients were not significantly different between groups, the third month EF were significantly increased in both groups, and this increment was significantly higher in the shunt group than the shuntless group. One patient (2.3%) died in the shuntless group whereas there was no death in the shunt group. Intracoronary shunt has protective effects on myocardium in patients with moderate left ventricular dysfunction.

The Annals of Thoracic Surgery, 2013