Dr. Abebe Muche Moges

Background: The palmaris longus muscle, located in the superficial anterior compartment of the forearm, plays a crucial role in wrist flexion. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the anatomical variation (presence or absence) of the palmaris longus using the Anatomage Table 10.0, a cutting-edge virtual dissection tool. Method: The research was conducted at the University of Global Health Equity's simula- tion laboratory in Rwanda from June 10 to June 15, 2024. Five cadavers (2 female, 3 male) with varying resolutions were used to examine the muscle's anatomy. Prior to data collection, instructors received training, and a pilot study ensured the reliability and valid- ity of the research. Virtual dissection and labeling of the palmaris longus muscle and cor- responding nerves were performed, while preserving key anatomical structures. Result: The study revealed a bilateral absence of the palmaris longus muscle in one cadav- er. Conclusion: Our findings on palmaris longus muscle variability highlight the significance of anatomical variations in treatment outcomes and patient care, contributing to the grow- ing understanding of their clinical implications. This variability is crucial for surgeons and clinicians to consider when performing forearm surgeries and diagnosing conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.

BACKGROUND: The Circle of Willis (COW) is a vital cerebral arterial network that maintains balanced blood flow in the brain. Despite initial insights from Thomas Willis, recent research has highlighted its complex anatomical variations. Objective: This study aims to evaluate the anatomical variations of the COW in Ethiopian cadavers. METHODS: We employed a descriptive observational approach on thirty-two cadavers. Detailed morphological examinations of the COW were performed following meticulous dissection at various Ethiopian universities. RESULTS: Significant anatomical variations were observed, particularly in the anterior divisions of the COW, with 57.14% of cases exhibiting notable differences. Variations in the anterior communicating artery (62.5%) and anterior cerebral artery (37.5%) were particularly diverse. In the posterior segment, 66.6% of anomalies involved unilateral right hypoplastic posterior communicating arteries, and bilateral hypoplastic posterior cerebral arteries were noted in two male cadavers. Essential vessels were present in all specimens. CONCLUSION: Comparative analysis with global studies reveals both similarities and differences, highlighting genetic and methodological influences. Recognizing these variations is crucial for diagnosing cerebrovascular diseases and managing intracranial aneurysms. Further longitudinal studies using advanced imaging techniques are recommended to enhance understanding in the Ethiopian population and beyond.

Introduction: Globally, cancer is the second leading cause of death and was responsible for 9.6 million deaths in 2018. Worldwide, 2 million people experience pain every day, and cancer pain is one of the major neglected public health problems, especially in Ethiopia. Despite reporting the burden and risk factors of cancer pain as a principal importance, there are limited studies. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of cancer pain and its associated factors among adult patients evaluated at the oncology ward in the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, northwest Ethiopia. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 January to 31 March 2021. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the total sample size of 384 patients. Data were collected using pretested and structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were fitted to identify the factors associated with cancer pain among patients with cancer. An adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% CI was computed to determine the level of significance. Results: A total of 384 study participants were involved, with a response rate of 97.5%. The proportion of cancer pain was found to be 59.9% (95% CI 54.8–64.8). The odds of cancer pain were escalated by anxiety (AOR = 2.52, 95% CI 1.02–6.19), patients with hematological cancer (AOR = 4.68, 95% CI 1.30–16.74), gastrointestinal cancer (AOR = 5.15, 95% CI 1.45–18.2), and stages III and IV (AOR = 14.3, 95% CI 3.20–63.7). Conclusion: The prevalence of cancer pain among adult patients with cancer in northwest Ethiopia is relatively high. Variables such as anxiety, types of cancer, and stage of cancer had a statistically significant association with cancer pain. Hence, to advance the management of pain, it is better to create more awareness regarding cancer-related pain and provide palliative care early on in the diagnosis of the disease.