The last 20 years have brought dramatic changes in our approach to aortic dissections. Advances have come not only in devices but also in imaging, medical therapy, and even our fundamental understanding of the anatomic pathology. But it is really the stent graft devices, and their promise of lower morbidity and mortality, that have emboldened us to more aggressively treat type B dissections. This study is this first meta-analysis comparing open to endovascular treatment of acute type B aortic dissections published within the past 5 years. With the way technology advances, one could claim this is the first such meta-analysis of our current modern age. Whereas the study has obvious limitations, let's look at the clear conclusions. Endovascular therapy for acute type B dissections appears to offer a definitive survival advantage in the postoperative period that is maintained through the first year. At 5 years, however, the picture becomes grim, with <50% survival regardless of therapy type. Although it is impossible to tell from the original series that compose this study, I hypothesize that the meta-analysis is a comparison not only of treatment type but also of treatment eras. Most of the open surgeries were likely performed early in the series, with most of the stent grafts being placed late. So we are really looking at a documentation of our evolving strategies for dealing with acute type B dissections. Thankfully it shows improvement, for early survival anyway. Of course, what is missing from this analysis is a medical management treatment limb. Patients with acute type B aortic dissections have a poor 5-year survival regardless of therapy. There must be a clear and perhaps even leading role for nonoperative management. This analysis, like the International Registry of Acute Aortic Dissection, seems to deliver as many questions as answers. Acute type B aortic dissections are a complex process with seemingly unlimited variables. To reach a treatment consensus, we should strive for the highest level of reporting standards. Going forward, modern series should include detailed indications for treatment for every case. Technical information, such as device type, landing zone, and length of coverage, is necessary to report when endovascular therapy is employed. For patients receiving conservative/medical management, documentation should include pharmaceutical regimen, treatment parameters, and of course the Great White Whale, patient compliance. There is no randomized, controlled clinical trial coming to deliver us from this confusion. We must gather what we can from studies like this and move forward with new, improved reporting standards. Systematic review and meta-analysis of acute type B thoracic aortic dissection, open, or endovascular repairJournal of Vascular SurgeryVol. 69Issue 5PreviewThe purpose of this study was to compare perioperative and mortality outcomes of endovascular aortic repair against open repair in acute type B thoracic aortic dissection. Full-Text PDF Open Archive
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