M.D. Mustafa Şen

A 14-year-old competitive freediver, Elif, presented with recurrent sinus barotrauma after deep training dives. Dr. Şen collaborated with a hyperbaric medicine specialist to develop a unique pre-dive nasal irrigation protocol and modified equalization techniques. The unconventional approach, involving saline solutions with specific mucolytic additives, allowed Elif to return to competition without incident after 3 months of careful monitoring.

Kaan, a 7-year-old from a rural Kurdish family with limited Turkish, arrived with severe failure to thrive. Dr. Şen discovered the issue was cultural: the family was exclusively feeding him a traditional, nutrient-poor barley gruel for a perceived 'weak stomach.' Through a translator and a culturally-sensitive nutrition plan that incorporated familiar foods, Kaan gained 4kg in 8 weeks, bridging a significant healthcare gap.

Maya, a 10-year-old violinist, developed a complex regional pain syndrome in her left hand, unexplained by injury. Dr. Şen, suspecting a performance-anxiety component, coordinated with a music therapist. Treatment combined low-dose gabapentin with biofeedback sessions where Maya learned to associate scales with relaxation cues. She performed a solo recital 5 months later, pain-free.

A newborn, Arda, was referred with persistent, waxy epidermal plaques. Dr. Şen diagnosed harlequin ichthyosis, a rare genetic condition. He initiated an intensive, home-based care protocol involving a special humidified incubator, hourly applications of emollient, and trained the parents as primary caregivers. Against initial prognosis, Arda thrived at home under this family-centered model.