1.Satisfaction survey on the Anatomy course among first-year medical students
Anujin D ; Nomiungerel R ; Yansanjav D ; Dorjjagdag G ; Nandin G ; Purevsuren Kh ; Dolgorsuren A ; Shine-Od D ; Juramt B ; Uranchimeg D ; Avirmed A ; Nyamdorj D ; Nyamsurendejid D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;95(5):6-11
Background:
The cornerstone of medical education in training qualified physicians lies in foundational scientific knowledge, which forms the basis for clinical reasoning and diagnostic-therapeutic decision-making. Anatomy constitutes one of the core foundational subjects within the medical doctor training curriculum and exerts a direct influence on the development of students’ baseline knowledge and the formation of their clinical thinking. This study was conducted to evaluate the anatomy curriculum through assessments by first-year students enrolled in the basic medical education program, with the aim of enhancing instructional quality and improving the structure and organization of the course.
Aim:
To investigate the satisfaction ratings of first-year students in the basic medical education program regarding the Anatomy-1 course.
Material and Methods:
The study was carried out using an analytical cross-sectional design during the first semester of the 2025–2026 academic year. Data were collected from a total of 289 first-year students of the basic medical education program at the School of Bio-Medicine of MNUMS (Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences) using a questionnaire comprising 24 items in total—3 demographic questions, 20 general satisfaction questions, and 1 open-ended question—with each item rated on a 5-point Likert scale. Data were processed using SPSS 23.0 software, employing descriptive statistics, two-sample t-tests, ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation, and factor analysis.
Results:
Of the study participants, 14.2% were male and 85.8% were female, with the cohort distributed across programs as follows: TAM 10.38%, TMS 17.30%, MDS 44.29%, PDS 13.15%, and DSS 14.88%. The overall satisfaction level was 4.59±0.66, falling within the “good” range. The highest rating was attributed to “Faculty members possess strong professional knowledge and skills” (DSS, 4.91±0.37), whereas the lowest rating was assigned to “Students’ knowledge and skills are evaluated objectively and fairly” (PDS, 4.16±0.75). The internal consistency coefficient of the questionnaire yielded α=0.909, indicating excellent reliability. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive associations among instructors’ respect for students’ viewpoints (Q4), instructors’ communication and demeanor (Q5), and professional ethics (Q6) (r=0.787; r=0.755; p<0.01). Factor analysis produced a KMO value of 0.865 and a Bartlett’s test result of p=0.000; accordingly, all 20 items were grouped into two factors—”Faculty Professional Competence” and “Learning Environment and Organization”—which collectively accounted for 58.74% of the total variance.
Conclusions
1. The findings indicate that the overall satisfaction of first-year basic medical education students who participated in the study was at a favorable level. 2. Faculty professional competence and the learning environment and organization were identified as factors influencing student satisfaction, explaining 58.74% of the total variance in the results. It was further established that adherence to professional ethics, respect for students’ perspectives, and equitable treatment are contingent upon the instructor’s knowledge and professional expertise.
2.Assessment of first-year basic health science students’ satisfaction with the Anatomy course
Nomiungerel R ; Anujin D ; Yansanjav D ; Dorjjagdag G ; Nandin G ; Purevsuren Kh ; Dolgorsuren A ; Shine-Od D ; Juramt B ; Uranchimeg D ; Avirmed A ; Nyamdorj D ; Nyamsurendejid D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;95(5):275-281
Background:
The Anatomy course, which provides general foundational knowledge on the structure of all organ systems of the human body, is a core professional course in the bachelor’s curricula of Pharmacy, Biomedical Science, Hygiene and Epidemiology, Public Health, Occupational Safety and Health, and Nutrition and Dietetics. Student satisfaction is not only an important indicator of the quality of medical education, but also influences graduates’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes; therefore, continuous research in this area is necessary.
Aim:
To determine the level of satisfaction with the Anatomy curriculum among first-year students in basic health science programs and to identify factors influencing their satisfaction, with the aim of improving the quality of teaching.
Materials and Methods:
An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2025 to February 2026 among 182 first-year students enrolled in the following programs at Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (MNUMS): Biomedical Research, Pharmacy, Health Epidemiology, Public Health, Health Informatics, and Traditional Medicine Therapy. Student satisfaction with the quality of the Anatomy course was assessed using a 24-item questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, applying descriptive statistics, independent-samples t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), Pearson correlation, factor analysis, and multiple regression analysis. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results:
The internal consistency of the satisfaction scale was very high (Cronbach’s α=0.928). The mean overall satisfaction score of the participants was 4.61±0.67. There was no significant difference in overall satisfaction by gender (p > 0.05). Factor analysis identified two main factors influencing the evaluation of teaching quality (KMO=0.894; Bartlett’s test p<0.001), which together explained 52.73% of the total variance. The first factor was “Teachers’ professional competence, communication, attitude, and assessment,” and the second factor was “Course organization, learning environment, and instructional materials.” Correlation analysis showed that better course organization and higher teacher engagement were positively associated with students’ satisfaction (p<0.01).
Conclusions
1. Among first-year basic health science students, satisfaction with the Anatomy course was influenced by teachers’ professional competence, ethics, interpersonal communication, and fair, objective assessment. 2. Adherence to professional ethics and maintaining respectful communication with students were found to be closely related to teachers’ knowledge and professional skills.
3.Review of studies on the structure and Injuries of the Ankle and Subtalar Joints
Nyamsü ; rendejid D ; Bolormaa G ; Nomiungerel R ; Anujin D ; Dorjjagdag G ; Nyamdorj D ; Uranchimeg D ; Avirmed A ; S.Enebish ; Purevsuren Kh
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2026;95(5):315-319
Background:
The study of the anatomical structure of the ankle joint ligaments is essential for understanding the stability, axis, and movement of the joint, as well as their interrelationship with the function. It also provides fundamental quantitative data for the training and research of physiotherapists, as well as the practice of injury and trauma medicine. Proper diagnosis and treatment of ankle joint injuries, as well as understanding the mechanism of injury, are based on this knowledge. Ankle joint injuries are common, with ligament and tendon injuries accounting for 85% of ankle injuries. In Mongolia, 81.1% of ankle injuries are new, 9.4% are similar to the initial injury, 8.1% are recurrent injuries, and 0.7% have unknown causes. Depending on the mechanism of injury, certain ligaments and connective tissues can be damaged. Ankle ligament injuries are the most common cause of acute ankle pain, and chronic ankle pain is often due to structural changes in the ankle ligaments.
Aim:
To summarize the research on the normal anatomy of the ankle and subtalar joint, as well as the studies on joint injuries, using the dissection method.
Materials and Methods:
Literature search was conducted in Thomson Reuters, Pubmed central database, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases, as well as the statistical data from the Health Development Center and the National Center for Trauma and Orthopedics. Keywords used include: ankle joint, subtalar joint, ankle joint and subtalar joint injuries. A total of 330 publications were identified, and 34 key articles on the normal anatomy of the ankle and subtalar joint, as well as joint injuries, were included in the review.
Results:
The ankle joint is formed between the distal end of the tibia and the superior articular surface of the talus. It allows plantar flexion and dorsiflexion movements, with a normal range of 30 degrees for plantar flexion and 50 degrees for dorsiflexion. The subtalar joint is formed between the posterior articular surfaces of the talus and calcaneus. It allows inversion and eversion movements, with a normal range of 35 degrees for inversion and 20 degrees for eversion. The ankle ligaments are divided into three groups: lateral, medial, and inferior tibiofibular (syndesmotic) ligaments. The most common cause of ankle joint injuries is excessive inversion of the subtalar joint, leading to injuries to the joint capsule, lateral and medial collateral ligaments, and the syndesmotic ligaments. Excessive plantar flexion and dorsiflexion of the ankle joint can also cause injuries to the posterior talofibular ligament, the osteochondral region of the talar neck, and the anterior-inferior margin of the tibia.
Conclusion
Comprehensive study of the ankle joint structure provides the basis for explaining the mechanism of injury. Further research in Mongolia is needed, combining dissection and imaging techniques, to develop standardized evaluation protocols that correlate with clinical outcomes.
4.Central serous chorioretinopathy
Temuulen B ; Baasansuren G ; Byambadorj M ; Uranchimeg D
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;85(1):257-262
Background:
Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) is described by researchers as a condition that results from fluid
under the retinal pigment epithelium, originating from the choroid of the eye. This disease usually affects the central part
of vision and may resolve on its own over time, though in some cases, it can persist for long periods or recur. In our country, there is a lack of research regarding this condition, which led to the motivation for gathering and reviewing existing
works on this topic.
Aim:
To collect and analyze a review of the studies on central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR).
Methods:
We reviewed and analyzed literature related to CSCR published in electronic sources such as Thomson Reuters, PubMed-central database, and Google Scholar using literature review methods.
Results:
CSCR is most commonly seen in individuals aged 35-55 years, with a significantly higher prevalence in men
(9.9/100,000) compared to women (1.7/100,000). Researchers found that the prevalence of CSCR is nearly the same
among populations in Europe, Africa, and Asia. CSCR typically affects one eye, but it occurs in both eyes in up to 40%
of cases. Weenink A (2001) studied the family members of 27 patients with bilateral CSCR, finding that 52% of family
members had been diagnosed with CSCR, and 27.5% of them had chronic CSCR in at least one eye. This suggests a
potential genetic predisposition to CSCR. According to researchers, while CSCR can be diagnosed clinically, additional
imaging techniques like fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography are frequently used to rule out other
diagnoses and guide treatment.
Conclusion
CSCR generally has a favorable prognosis, but recurrences and its effects on visual function indicate the
need for effective management strategies. To maintain long-term visual improvement, it is essential to provide healthcare
services tailored to the patient’s specific conditions and risk factors.
5.Quality Assurance of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Unit - A Single Center Study
Sarantuya Ts ; Amarjargal B ; Tungalag B ; Khishgee D ; Amarmend T ; Delgertsog T ; Amarjargal E ; Sarantuya G ; Gan-Orshikh L ; Enkhjargal B ; Sarantsatsral D ; Burentungalag A ; Nandintsetseg B ; Tserendolgor Ts ; Sattgul Sh ; Javzanpagma E ; Suvdantsetseg B ; Khashchuluun O ; Ouynkhishig N ; Munkhtuya E ; Uranchimeg M ; Oyuntungalag L ; Myadagmaa B ; Bat-Erdene I ; Batgombo N ; Saranbaatar A
Mongolian Journal of Health Sciences 2025;86(2):165-170
Background:
Accreditation of healthcare institutions serves as a fundamental mechanism for ensuring patient safety
and validating the quality of medical services provided to the population. At Intermed Hospital, a quality measurement
system for healthcare services has been established since 2015, encompassing 126 quality indicators at both institutional
and departmental levels. This system facilitates continuous quality improvement efforts. In this context, quality indicators
specific to the endoscopy department play a pivotal role in objectively assessing the quality of endoscopic services.
Aim:
To assess the quality indicators in gastrointestinal endoscopy unit.
Materials and Methods:
A retrospective single-center study was conducted by collecting data from the Intermed hospital’s
electronic information systems which included HIS and PACS and Quality and Safety Department’s Database and the results
were processed using the SPSS software. Ethical approval was granted by the Intermed hospital’s Scientific research
committee. The quality of endoscopic services in the Intermed hospital was assessed based on: a) the average values of
four quality indicators measured monthly; b) sample survey data from five categories of quality indicators.
Results :
Between 2016 and 2024, the quality indicators of the endoscopy unit measured as the level of early warning
score evaluations for patients was 95.97%±3.33, the level of cases where peripheral blood oxygen saturation decreased
during sedation was 1.54%±3.78, the level of cases where patients experienced paradoxiical response during sedation was
5.82%±1.75, surveillance culturing level for validation of endoscopy reprocessing was 11.6%. The endoscopic documentation
quality by peer review showed 95.7-100%, the colonoscopy quality indicators were followings as adenoma
detection rate: 24.5% Cecal intubation rate: 99.1%, 95.2%, Colonoscope withdrawal average time: 13.28±10.62 minutes,
Bowel preparation quality (Boston Scale): 89.3% 95.7%), patient discharge from the recovery room, Average discharge
time post-procedure: With propofol alone: 30.92 minutes; With propofol and fentanyl combined: 31.52 minutes, The intermediate
risk was 0.28% by the TROOPS evaluation during procedural sedation.
Conclusion
The quality benchmark levels for these endoscopic units, as determined by a single-center study, can be
effectively implemented by benchmark endoscopy centers to enhance their quality and safety operations.
6.Neuroticism as a risk factor for anxiety, depression, and insomnia during the covid-19 pandemic
Enkhtuvshin R ; Mongoljin A ; Munkhzul E ; Uranchimeg M ; Oyundari G ; Yerkibulan A ; Khishigsuren Z
Diagnosis 2025;115(4):36-42
Background:
The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted global mental health, exacerbating anxiety, depression, and insomnia, with prevalence rates of 25–30%, 27–32%, and 30–45%, respectively—2–3 times higher than pre-pandemic levels. Neuroticism, a key personality trait from the Big Five model, characterized by heightened negative emotions and stress reactivity, has been linked to increased vulnerability. Meta-analyses show neuroticism triples anxiety risk (OR=3.21; 95% CI: 2.35–4.39) and correlates strongly with insomnia (r=0.46, p<0.001) and depression during the pandemic. In Mongolia, empirical data on neuroticism's role remains limited.
Objective:
This study examines whether neuroticism acts as a risk factor for anxiety, depression, and insomnia among hospitalized patients during COVID-19.
Methods:
A cross-sectional descriptive study enrolled 552 patients (72.3% COVID-19 cases, 27.7% controls) from tertiary hospitals in Mongolia (2024). Participants (mean age 52.8±15.5 years; 60.5% female) completed self-reported questionnaires: Eysenck Personality Inventory (EPI) for neuroticism, PHQ-9 for depression, GAD 7 for anxiety, ISI for insomnia, and PCL 5 for PTSD. Sociodemographics were assessed. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0 with chi-square tests (p<0.05 significance). Instruments showed high reliability (Cronbach’s α=0.81–0.89). Ethical approval was obtained from MNUMS Ethics Committee (No. 2024-Psy-17).
Results:
Overall, 79.5% were depression free, 84.8% anxiety-free, and 77.5% insomnia-free. High neuroticism (n=381) was significantly associated with depression (24.4% vs. 11.7%, p<0.001), anxiety (18.6% vs. 7.6%, p<0.001), insomnia (28.3% vs. 9.4%, p<0.001), and any mental disorder (21.3% vs. 7%, p<0.001), but not PTSD (p=0.472). Cholerics (n=200) showed elevated risks (depression 29.5%, insomnia 34.5%, p<0.001), while sanguines/phlegmatics were protective. Verbal expression and trust levels showed no significant associations.
Conclusion
Neuroticism significantly heightens risks for anxiety, depression, and insomnia during COVID-19, underscoring the need for targeted psychological interventions. Temperament-informed screening could enhance prevention strategies in crisis settings.
7.Neuromyelitis optica- plasmapheresis efficacy
Yesuigen B ; Uranchimeg B ; Namuun G ; Tungalagtamir Sh
Diagnosis 2024;110(3):53-56
Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an autoimmune, inflammatory, demyelinating disorder characterised by attacks within the spinal cord and optic nerve. The purpose of this review is to understand the evidence for the effectiveness of plasmapheresis as an add-on therapy for NMO spectrum disorders (NMOSD). The current diagnostic criteria for NMO include optic neuritis, acute myelitis, and at least two of the following three supportive criteria: contiguous spinal cord MRI lesions extending over ≥3 vertebral segments, brain MRI not meeting diagnostic criteria for multiple sclerosis, and NMO-seropositive status.5 Myelitis presents with paraparesis and sensory loss below the lesion, sphincter loss, dysaesthesia, and radicular pain.
8.Genetic and risk factors of age-related macular degeneration
Ariunzaya A ; Chimedlkhamsuren G ; Bayarlakh B ; Suvd T ; Baasankhuu J ; Sarantuya J ; Uranchimeg D
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2024;210(4):18-25
Background:
Worldwide, the leading cause of blindness in people over the age of 50 is age-related macular
degeneration (AMD), which is a complication of the exudative “wet” and dry type. AMD is a
multifactorial neurodegenerative disease relating with a combination of environmental and
genetic factors, and a contribution of age effect and smoking also, obesity was investigated
to be associated with the disease. Number of previous studies have shown that the
polymorphisms in the ARMS2, CFH and VEGF-A genes are associated with AMD. Therefore,
we investigated the associations between the five common vascular endothelial growth factor
(VEGF) polymorphisms and AMD with its therapeutic results.
Materials and Methods:
Totally 161 AMD patients and 223 controls were enrolled in this case-control study. A
prospective analysis of 66 eyes of 34 patients with neovascular AMD evaluated intravitreal
bevacizumab injections. The polymorphisms in CFH, ARMS2 and VEGF-А were detected
by using the methods of allele-specific polymerase chain reaction (ASPCR) and PCR based
restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). Statistical analyses were performed by
SNPalyze software.
Results:
Results of the study showed that rs1061170, rs1065489, and rs800292 polymorphisms are
associated with arterial hypertension. Anti-coagulant intake rs1061170 polymorphism T/C,
C/C/C/C risk genotype (OR=5.04, 95% CI, 1.81-14.09, p=0.002, RERI=2.568, AP=0.509,
S=2.7302) , combined effect of G/C/C/C/ /G, G/A risk genotype (OR=6.52, 95% CI, 2.88
14.79, p<0.001, RERI=4.187, AP=0.642, S=4.136) are associated with increased risk of AMD. In the study, in 66 eyes of a total of 34 people who received intravitreous injection
treatment, the central retinal thickness before and after treatment was 294.59±83.52 before
treatment, 262.74±87.02 on the first day after treatment, 259.5±111.83 after one month,
248.98±84.96 after 3 months, and 262.69 after 6 months. ±110.59, after 1 year it decreased
to 259.19±112.29 (95% CI, 226.74-291.65), which is a statistically significant difference. A
comparative study of polymorphisms in therapeutic and non-therapeutic groups revealed
statistically significant differences in the G/G groups of rs2010963 polymorphisms. Also,
people with G/G genotype of rs2010963 polymorphism are more effective in treatment than
people with other genotypes.
Conclusion
Individual factors such as not wearing sunglasses and arterial hypertension and using anti
coagulant medication have been identified as risk factors for AMD. The result showed that
polymorphisms of ARMS2, CFH, VEGF genes can be a genetic risk factor for AMD. The
decreased in central retinal thickness and improving VA after anti-VEGF treatment confirm the
effectiveness of the treatment. Also, people with G/G genotype of rs2010963 polymorphism
are more effective in treatment than people with other genotypes. Identification of genetic
markers that affect clinical response may result in optimization of anti-VEGF therapy.
9.Trifocal intraocular lens implantation to treat visual demands in Mongolian patients
Narangarav G ; Tsendjargal G ; Davaa D ; Uranchimeg D
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2023;203(1):17-21
Introduction:
Intraocular lens (IOL) implants are monofocal and trifocal lenses which helps to clear up the vision after cataract surgery.
Goal:
In this work, we aimed to compare the monofocal and trifocal IOL implantation during phacoemulsification surgery.
Materials and Methods:
This study was conducted on 133 participants. Females comprised n=81, mean n=52 into equal groups. Preoperative and Postoperative cataract surgery UCVA and BCVA were measured and compared during the after 1 day, week 1, 2 weeks and month1.
Statistical analysis:
The results of the study were processed using the SPSS 25.0 program after coding the data and checking for typographical errors. The normality of the data distribution was tested by inspecting a histogram. Categorical variables were compared using the chi-square test or Fisher's test. Statistical significance was determined at a p-value lower than 0.05
Ethical statement:
The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences (No.2021/05/21). All patients provided written informed consent before participating in this study.
Results:
The mean preoperative UCVA was 1.09±0.45D in monofocal IOL group, 0.99±0.49D in trifocal IOL group. At the first week: The mean postoperative UCVA at one week was 0.34±0.29D and 0.27±0.17D, in each group respectively. The mean postoperative BCVA in the first week was 0.28±0.27D and 0.20±0.15D in each group respectively. The mean postoperative UCVA at 1 month was 0.27±0.24D and 0.15±0.16D in each group, while BCVA was 0.26±24.94D and 0.06±0.63D.There was a highly significant statistical difference between the result of UCVA preoperative and the results of UCVA at the early and last postoperative follow up.
Conclusion
From our results, the best corrected visual acuity and was better for Trifocal group than Monofocal group. It is evident that post-operative near UCVA and BCVA was statistically significant at monofocal and trifocal groups.
10.Risk factors for endometritis following low transverse cesarean section
Khaliun U ; Buyan-Orshih G ; Bayarsaikhan Kh ; Lkhagva-Ochir E ; Uranchimeg R
Mongolian Medical Sciences 2023;206(4):9-15
Introduction:
Endometritis (EMM) is the most common maternal infectious complication of childbirth, occurring
more commonly after low transverse cesarean section (LTCS) than vaginal delivery [1]. In a Cochrane
review, the mean incidence of EMM following elective cesarean section was 7% and after non-elective
or emergency operations was 30% [4]. A variety of independent risk factors for post-cesarean EMM
have been identified in previous studies, including no prior cesarean section [5], low infant Apgar
scores [6], trial of labor [7], premature rupture of membranes (PROM) >24 hours, young maternal
age [8], preterm or post-term gestation [9], antepartum infections [10], pre-eclampsia, meconium [11],
amnion infusion, postpartum anemia, multiple vaginal examinations [12], and manual removal of the
placenta [13]. The time of ruptured membranes before delivery is examined via dichotomized time
thresholds, the risks of chorioamnionitis and endomyometritis are significantly increased at 12 hours
and 16 hours, respectively [16, 17]. A change in policy to administer prophylactic antibiotics before
skin incision led to a significant decline in postcesarean delivery surgical-site infections [18, 19].
Objective:
To determine independent risk factors for EMM following (LTCS).
Material and Method:
The study was case-control study, between 2022 to 2023 years at the “Urguu” specialized maternal
hospital Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Case group has 101 women with EMM and the control group has 100
women with non EMM after LTCS.
Results:
The age of 2 study groups was 32.4 and 32.8, body mass index was 30 kg/m2 and 30.7 kg/
m2.Young maternal age <25 has a 22% (p=0.001, OR=4.5) influence on the occurrence of EMM.
Other pregnancy related factors were not associated with the EMM after LTCS. (p>0.05). Delivery
risk factors has increases the EMM by 15% (p=0.002), labor induction by 20% (p=0.001), duration of
labor >12 hours by 40% (p=0.001), PROM increased by 15% (p=0.005), meconium by 15% (p=0.005),
chorioamnionitis by 15% (p=0.001).
Conclusion
Our study, young maternal age <25 has influence on the occurrence of EMM. Other pregnancy related
factors were not associated with the EMM after LTCS. Delivery associated risk factors are affected
by the EMM after LTCS. The labor after LTCS, labor induction, PROM >12 hours, duration of labor,
number of vaginal exams>4, meconium, chorioamnionitis increased by EMM. Young maternal age
(<25) increased the risk of EMM attached with labor association risk factors.
Result Analysis
Print
Save
E-mail