The role of Ataturk University in data and publication production for sigmoid volvulus and ileosigmoid knotting

OBJECTIVE: Sigmoid Volvulus (SV) and Ileosigmoid Knotting (ISK) are rare intestinal obstruction forms, but Turkey is endemic for these diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of our publications in the world literature. METHODS: We electronically searched Web of Science database to evaluate the manuscripts published during June 1966 to July 2018. RESULTS: Total 788 manuscripts have been published by 289 different organizations (2.7 items per organization) around the world. Among them, 71 (9.0%) are from 31 different institutions in Turkey, while 37 manuscripts (4.7% of total and 52.1% of Turkish items), including 27 on SV and 10 on ISK, have been published by our clinic. Of our publication, 19 items (51.4%) were original articles, 10 (27.0%) were published in Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences, 30 (81.1%) were published over a period spanning from 2009 to 2018, and in 32 of which (86.5%) the corresponding author was Atamanalp. CONCLUSION: Arising from our 1,008-case SV and 80-case ISK experiences over a 52-year period between June 1966 and July 2018, our clinic has an important role in the data production and publication for SV and ISK. It seems that our clinic may provide several more documents in the years to come.