Background: The superior thyroid artery (STA) exhibits significant anatomical variability, which is crucial for head and neck surgical procedures, particularly free flap reconstruction. This systematic review synthesizes the current knowledge on STA origin, branching patterns, perfusion territory, and its relationship with the superior laryngeal nerve (SLN), focusing on implications for flap selection and surgical planning. Methods: A comprehensive search of relevant databases was conducted to identify studies reporting on STA anatomy. Data extraction focused on the STA origin variations, relationships with anatomical landmarks, branching patterns, perfusion territory, and the STA-SLN relationship. Emphasis was placed on variations impacting STA’s suitability as a recipient vessel for free flaps. Data were synthesized qualitatively. Results: The STA most commonly originates from the external carotid artery (ECA), with variations from the carotid bifurcation (CB) and common carotid artery (CCA). Sex-based and laterality differences were noted. Branching patterns varied considerably, influencing perfusion of the thyroid gland, larynx, and adjacent musculature. The STA’s relationship with the external branch of the SLN (EBSLN), classified by Cernea’s classification, highlighted the risk of iatrogenic injury. The STA provides perfusion to the thyroid gland, larynx, sternocleidomastoid muscle, and strap muscles, all of which can be raised as flaps. Conclusions: Understanding STA anatomical variations is essential for surgeons planning free flap reconstruction in the head and neck. This review underscores the importance of preoperative imaging to assess STA suitability as a recipient’s vessel and minimize complications. Further research is needed to quantify the impact of STA variations on free flap outcomes.

Ovarian cancer (OC) represents a significant challenge in the realm of gynecological cancers, characterized by poor survival rates and complex etiology. This review delves into the genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors underpinning OC development, shedding light on both well-established contributors and emerging influences. We reviewed scientific databases searching for OC genetic and epigenetic factors and included studies based on their relevancy. As a result of exploring ovarian carcinogenesis, this systematic review contains data collected from 102 works. The role of prominent genetic players, such as BRCA mutations and DNA repair mechanisms, underscores the intricate landscape of OC susceptibility. Furthermore, we explore Li-Fraumeni and Lynch syndrome, which result in a heightened predisposition to OC development. Hormonal factors such as estrogen, progesterone, and androgens are also discussed in detail. Environmental alterations, ranging from lifestyle influences to microbiome dysbiosis add layers of complexity to OC pathogenesis. Lifestyle factors such as obesity, alcohol consumption, and physical activity intersect with genetic and epigenetic pathways, shaping the risk landscape for OC. This review provides a nuanced understanding of the multifactorial nature of OC through a meticulous examination of current literature, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

Ovarian cancer (OC) represents a significant challenge in the realm of gynecological cancers, characterized by poor survival rates and complex etiology. In this review, we delve into the se-lected genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors underpinning OC development. We have reviewed scientific databases searching for ovarian cancer genetic and epigenetic factors. We have included studies based on their relevancy. As a result of exploring ovarian carcinogen-esis, this systematic review contains data collected from 126 various works. The role of prominent genetic players such as BRCA mutations, DNA repair mechanisms, un-derscores the intricate landscape of OC susceptibility. We explore Li-Fraumeni and Lynch syn-drome, which impart a heightened predisposition to OC development. Hormonal factors such as estrogen, progesterone, and androgens are also discussed. Environmental alterations, ranging from lifestyle influences on OC to microbiome dysbiosis and lifestyle factors such as obesity, al-cohol consumption, and physical activity intersect with genetic and epigenetic pathways, shaping the risk landscape for OC. Through a meticulous examination of current literature, this review provides a nuanced under-standing of the multifactorial nature of OC, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.