Assoc. Prof. M.D. Kemal Öncü Reviews

A 28-year-old female professional freediver from Australia, working seasonally in Bodrum, presented with recurrent, severe abdominal pain exclusively after deep dives. Dr. Öncü discovered a rare case of mesenteric artery compression exacerbated by the Valsalva maneuver during ascent. Treatment involved a tailored dietary plan to manage intra-abdominal pressure and coordination with a diving physician. The patient returned to professional diving within 8 weeks with modified techniques.

A 72-year-old retired olive grove farmer from a remote village presented with progressive dysphagia, having self-treated for years with herbal mixtures. Endoscopy revealed an advanced, obstructing esophageal stricture from untreated GERD. Dr. Öncü performed a complex, staged dilation procedure over several months. The patient's granddaughter, a medical student in Istanbul, facilitated communication and advocated for his care, resulting in restored swallowing function.

A 41-year-old Syrian refugee and tailor, recently resettled in Bodrum, presented with unexplained weight loss and fatigue. He was hesitant to seek care due to past trauma. Dr. Öncü, through a translator, diagnosed intestinal tuberculosis—a condition rare in Turkey but prevalent in his home region. A full 6-month WHO Directly Observed Therapy regimen was coordinated with public health services, leading to complete recovery and community reintegration.

A 19-year-old university student from Istanbul, vacationing in Bodrum, presented with acute, severe jaundice after consuming wild mushrooms foraged near his hostel. Dr. Öncü identified Amanita phalloides poisoning with acute liver injury. He initiated aggressive N-acetylcysteine protocol and coordinated emergency transfer for possible liver transplant evaluation. The patient recovered hepatic function after 3 weeks in intensive care without transplantation.