Acute Type A Aortic Dissection Research Articles

Surgical management and outcomes of coronary artery involvement secondary to acute type A aortic dissection: a retrospective cohort study.

Coronary artery involvement (CAI) remains a fatal comorbidity in the context of acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD). We evaluated the impact of CAI on the perioperative and short-term outcomes of patients with ATAAD who underwent total arch replacement (TAR) and frozen elephant trunk (FET) implantation and shared our surgical management experience with the involved coronary artery. In this retrospective cohort study, a total of 204 patients with ATAAD between June 2019 and December 2021 were enrolled and divided into the CAI group (n=67) and the non-CAI group (n=137). The characteristics of CAI lesions were described according to the Neri classification. Univariable and multivariable analyses were used to identify independent risk factors for in-hospital mortality. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared using the log-rank test. Patients in the CAI group had a longer intraoperative duration of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and cross-clamp, and experienced longer mechanical ventilation time and intensive care unit stays postoperatively. Regarding perioperative outcomes, the prevalence rates of new-onset continuous renal replacement therapy requirement (23.9% vs. 10.2%, P=0.01) and in-hospital mortality (17.9% vs. 7.3%, P=0.02) were higher in the CAI group. Coronary artery malperfusion (CAM) was an independent risk factor for in-hospital mortality. Short-term survival analysis was similar between the two groups (P=0.146). For patients with ATAAD undergoing TAR and FET implantation, concomitant CAI may complicate surgery and increase in-hospital morbidity and mortality. CAM secondary to CAI was identified as an independent risk factor. However, short-term survival after hospital discharge was comparable between the two groups. Coronary ostium repair is quick and operable for both type A and type B lesions, while optimal management still warrants further investigation.

Reinterventions After Repair of Acute Type A Aortic Dissection: Incidence, Outcomes, and Risk Factors

BackgroundThis study reports the incidence, outcomes, and risk factors for aortic reinterventions after repair of acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD). MethodsThis was an observational study of aortic operations from 2010 to 2021. All patients with ATAAD undergoing open aortic arch reconstruction were included. Patients were dichotomized by the need for reintervention, which included reinterventions proximal to or distal to the index aortic repair. Propensity matching was used to determine the impact of reintervention on long-term outcomes. The cumulative incidence function for reintervention was estimated, and multivariable Fine-Gray analysis was performed to identify variables associated with reintervention, with death treated as a competing event. ResultsWe identified 601 patients undergoing surgery for ATAAD. An aortic reintervention was required in 71 (11.8%), comprising a proximal reintervention in 12 patients, a distal reintervention in 56, and both in 3. The cumulative incidence of reintervention was 11.6% (95% CI, 8.9%-14.6%) at 5 years and was 16.0% (95% CI, 12.2%-20.3%) at 10 years, with a median time to reintervention of 4.0 years (interquartile range, 0.9-7.5 years). Multivariable analysis using the Fine-Gray method showed no operative variables were associated with reinterventions. Among the 71 reinterventions, there were 4 (5.6%) operative deaths. After propensity matching, there was no difference in Kaplan-Meier survival estimates across each group (P = .138 by log-rank statistics). ConclusionsThe cumulative incidence of aortic reintervention after ATAAD repair was reasonably low (16% at 10 years), reinterventions were relatively safe (6% operative mortality), and reinterventions did not significantly impact long-term survival.

Endovascular Treatment of Type A Aortic Dissection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Using Reconstructed Time-to-Event Data.

The undisputed gold standard of treatment for type A aortic dissections (TAAD) is open surgery. Anecdotal reports have assessed thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) as a last resort for highly selected candidates. The present study aims to evaluate endovascular outcomes in TAAD patients who are unsuitable for open surgery whilst having TEVAR-compatible aortic anatomy. A PRISMA-compliant systematic search of the PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases was performed up to 19 May 2022. Time-to-event data were reconstructed using Kaplan-Meier curves from the source literature. In 20 eligible studies, 311 patients underwent TEVAR for acute, subacute, or chronic TAAD. Mean age at the time of the operation was 60.70 ± 8.00 years and 75.48% (95% Confidence Interval [CI], 60.33-88.46%) of the included patients were males. Mean operative time was 169.40 ± 30.70 min. Overall, 0.44% (95% CI, 0.00-4.83%) of the cases were converted to salvage open surgery. Technical failure, stroke, and endoleaks occurred in 0.22%, 0.1%, and 8.52% of the cohort, respectively. Thirty-day postoperative complication rate was 7.08% (95% CI, 1.52-14.97%), whereas late complications developed in 16.89% (95% CI, 7.75-27.88%) of the patients. One-, three-, and five-year survival rates were estimated at 87.15%, 82.52% and 82.31%, respectively. Reintervention was required in 8.38% of the cohort over a mean follow-up of 32.40 ± 24.40 months. TEVAR seems to be feasible in highly selected patients with TAAD who cannot tolerate open surgery. Overcoming technical limitations and acquiring long-term data are warranted to safely define the place of endovascular treatment in the armamentarium of TAAD repair.

The mid-term outcomes of aortic-root repair is not inferior to Bentall procedure in acute type-A aortic dissection

ObjectiveBentall procedure used to be standard operation for involved aortic root in acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD). But aortic root repair for preserving valve is still controversial in ATAAD. This study aimed to evaluate the midterm outcomes of aortic root repair by comparing with Bentall approach. MethodsA retrospective analysis of 1075 ATAAD patients with aortic root involvement was conducted. The patients were divided into aortic root repair group (n = 447) and Bentall group (n = 628). The propensity score matching analysis (PSMA) was used to adjust the baseline. ResultsThe median follow-up was 44 months (interquartile range, 17–65 months; range, 1–130 months). The 30-day mortality in the repair and replacement groups was 15.0 % and 12.9 % (P = 0.327) respectively; the late overall mortality was 15.9 % and 14.0 % (P = 0.394) respectively. The Kaplan-Meier 10-year survival and free-from-reoperation was 86.0 % and 92.5 % respectively in the repair group. After PSMA, the cumulative survival rate [Hazard Ratio (HR) 0.685; 95 % Confidence Interval (CI) 0.457–1.027; P = 0.747]) and reoperation rate (HR 0.308; 95 % CI 0.070–1.355; P = 0.157) was not significantly higher in the repair group than in the Bentall group. ConclusionThe mid-term outcome of aortic root repair is probably not inferior to Bentall procedure. Therefore, root repair is an alternative approach in ATAAD with the advantage of preserving native valve.

A novel approach to determine the optimal annual case volume for cardiovascular interventions in need of centralization

Abstract Background There is an incentive to centralize specialized health care, which particularly applies to high-risk surgical and trans-catheter cardiovascular procedures. In health care policy, annual hospital case volume is the main criterion to define expertise and determine centralization. Purpose We propose a novel methodology to evaluate the volume-outcome relation for high-risk and infrequent cardiovascular procedures, by use of a meta-analytical approach, and aim to determine a specific annual case volume threshold, using surgery for acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) as an example. Methods This study was designed as a systematic review and meta-analysis (PROSPERO; registration number CRD42022345024). We included studies reporting on (i) consecutive ATAAD patients, (ii) years of inclusion and (iii) early mortality. The primary outcome was early mortality in relation to annual hospital case volume. Secondary outcome was long-term survival. Data were presented and compared in volume quartiles (Q's, Q1 1-12, Q2 12-17, Q3 17-28, and Q4 28-241 cases/year). Restricted cubic spline analysis was used to demonstrate the volume-outcome relation. Derived from optimization statistics, we introduce the concept of the 'elbow-method' to determine the optimal annual case volume (see Figure 1). For long-term survival, individual patient data derived from Kaplan-Meier curves were integrated. For clinical interpretation, numbers needed to treat (NNT) were calculated. Results 125 studies from 125 unique centers were included (25 countries, 5 continents, see Figure 1), comprising 33 027 patients. A significant between-quartile difference for early mortality was observed (10.5% [Q4] vs. 16.8% [Q1], p<0.001, I2=72%), which persisted after correction for age, sex, and dissection type (p<0.001). Furthermore, a significant non-linear volume-outcome association was observed as well (p<0.001, Figure 1). The optimal annual case volume after which results did not improve any further, was determined at 41 cases/year (95% CI 39-45, relative risk reduction 37.1%, NNT 16.1, compared to 10 cases/year, Figure 1). Even more pronounced between-quartile survival differences were observed for long-term survival (43 studies, n=11 704, 10-year survival Q4 69% vs Q1 56%, p<0.001, HR=0.87, 95%CI=0.84-0.90, p<0.001, NNT 6.7, Figure 2). This notable long-term survival difference persisted after correction for age, sex, and dissection type (Figure 2). Conclusions High volume centers exhibit superior results in surgery for ATAAD, compared to lower volume centers. Using a novel approach, the optimal annual hospital ATAAD case volume threshold was statistically determined at 41 cases/year, with a high degree of certainty. Despite its acute character, rerouting of patients and centralization of ATAAD care in high-volume centers may lead to improved outcomes. This novel method has the potential to be applied to various other cardiovascular procedures requiring centralization.Figure 1Early mortalityFigure 2Long-term survival

Short- and long-term results of total arch replacement for acute type I aortic dissection in comparison to hemiarch replacement: a 10-year follow-up analysis

Abstract Background Optimal management of the arch in cases of acute type-A aortic dissection (ATAAD) involving the aortic arch (DeBakey type I) is still controversial. Extended total arch replacement (TAR) to address re-entries increases the complexity of surgery and may be associated with worse short-term outcome. We aimed in this study to compare short- and long-term outcomes of TAR compared to hemiarch replacement. Methods We retrospectively analyzed data of patients operated for ATAAD in our center. The study was approved by the ethics committee. We used Student’s t-test or Mann-Whitney U test to compare continuous variables. We performed univariate Chi-square and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Log-rank test was used to compare long-term mortality between the two groups. In addition, hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was reported. Results Between July 2007 and November 2021, 396 patients underwent surgery for ATAAD in our center. Among them, 326 (82%) presented with DeBakey type I dissection and were included in further analyses. TAR was performed in 103 (32%) patients, while hemiarch in 221 (68%) patients. Patients who received TAR were significantly younger (59.2±12.3 vs 64.0±13.5 years), had more frequently peripheral arterial disease (24% vs 15%, p=0.065), and presented more frequently preoperatively with neurological deficits (32% vs 18%, p=0.046). Patients in the TAR group received more aortic repair/replacement (29% vs 17%, p=0.018). New permanent postoperative neurological deficits (stroke or paraplegia) occurred in 10% of the TAR group and in 15% of the hemiarch group (p=0.463). Mortality at 30 days was higher in the TAR group but the difference was not statistically significant (27% vs 20%, p=0.198). In the multivariate analyses TAR was not an independent predictor for 30-day mortality (OR: 1.71, 0.91-3.19, p=0.092) or post operative neurological complications (OR: 0.66, 0.28-1.55, p=0.337). The estimated 10-year survival for patients with TAR was 56% compared to 63% for the hemiarch group (Logrank=0.450). In the multivariate Cox regression analysis, TAR was not an independent predictor for long-term survival (adjusted HR: 1.24, 0.79-1.94, p=0.348). Conclusions Total arch replacement was not an independent predictor for postoperative neurological complications, short-, or long-term mortality. Putting a potential surgeon bias aside, our results suggest that the fear of TAR may be overestimated.

Abstract 11711: Factors Predicting Acute Ischemic Stroke Following Surgical Repair of Acute Type A Aortic Dissection (ATAAD) in Adults

Introduction: Acute type A Aortic dissection (ATAAD) may require urgent surgical repair, and a major complication is acute ischemic stroke (AIS) post-surgery. Aim: To explore characteristics associated with AIS in ATAAD patients post-surgical repair (PSR). Hypothesis: We assessed the hypothesis that multiple factors influence events of AIS in ATAAD patients PSR. Method: Multivariate regression analysis for factors influencing AIS in adults with a principal diagnosis of ATAAD and undergoing surgical repair was performed via the 2016-2020 National Inpatient Sample. Results: Among the 20335 ATAAD cases with surgical repair, 14.7%(2985 cases) reported an event of AIS. Individuals ≥60 years (vs. ages 18-39 years, aOR 1.323, p=0.007) and presence of hypertension (aOR 1.228, P<.001), acute kidney injury (AKI) (aOR 1.353, P<.001), Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) ≥3 (aOR 15.129, p<.001), and Private insurances (vs. Medicare, aOR 1.454, p<.001) or Medicaid (vs. Medicare, aOR 1.673, p<.001) showed higher odds of developing AIS. On the contrary, smoking (aOR 0.613, p<.001), obesity (aOR 0.882, p=0.027), cirrhosis (aOR 0.309, p<.001), dyslipidemia (aOR 0.732, p<.001), diabetes (DM) (aOR 0.508, p<.001), peripheral vascular disease (PVD) (aOR 0.615, p<.001), Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) (aOR 0.446, p<.001), prior MI (aOR 0.461, p<.001) and prior stroke (aOR 0.788, p=0.04) and Black race (aOR 0.736, p<.001) indicated lower odds. No significant difference was seen in age 40-59 (aOR 1.06, p=0.545), drug abuse (aOR 1.093, p=0.451), alcohol abuse (aOR 0.925, p=0.476), Females (vs. Males, aOR 0.973, p=0.579), and Hispanics (vs. Whites, aOR 1.102, p=0.285). Conclusion: In conclusion, a 14.7% rate of AIS in ATAAD PSR was observed. Ages ≥60, hypertension, AKI, CCI ≥3, and Private and Medicaid insurance holders appeared prone to AIS following such events, while smoking, obesity, cirrhosis, dyslipidemia, DM, PVD, CKD, prior MI, prior stroke, and Blacks had reduced odds.

Abstract 18441: Long-Term Outcomes of Total Arch Replacement With Frozen Elephant Trunk Procedure for Patients With Acute Type A Aortic Dissection: A Single-Center Experience

Introduction: Total arch replacement (TAR) with frozen elephant trunk (FET) is an extensive surgical procedure for patients with acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD). This study aimed to investigate the long-term outcomes of TAR with FET procedure for patients with ATAAD. Methods: A total of 670 patients with ATAAD who underwent TAR with FET procedure between January 2013 and December 2018 were included in this study. The patients were divided into two groups: the early group (n=245, 2013-2015) and the modern group (n=425, 2016-2018). In-hospital and long-term outcomes were compared between the two groups. Results: The average age and gender distribution were similar between the two groups (P>0.05). The modern group had a higher prevalence of preoperative coma (P<0.001). Patients in the modern group had a shorter mean duration of surgical procedure, including cardiopulmonary bypass time (189.8 ± 53.0 vs 176.0 ± 53.0 min, P=0.001) and hypothetical cardiac arrest time (22.8 ± 5.2 vs 15.1 ± 6.2 min, P<0.001). Although the in-hospital mortality was lower in the modern group, the difference was not statistically significant (6.1% vs 3.3%, P=0.064). The modern group had a significantly lower incidence of postoperative major adverse outcomes compared to the early group (33.9% vs 20.2%, P<0.001). The mean follow-up period was similar between the two groups. The overall long-term survival rate of patients undergoing TAR with FET procedure in this cohort was 92.7%. Patients in the modern group had a significantly lower cumulative incidence of all-cause mortality compared to those in the early group (P<0.001). Cox regression analysis showed that the modern year was an independent protective factor for the long-term survival of ATAAD patients undergoing TAR with FET procedure (HR=0.336, 95% CI: 0.193-0.585, P<0.001). Conclusions: The in-hospital and long-term outcomes of TAR with FET procedure for patients with ATAAD are promising and have improved over time.

Abstract 15941: Efficacy of Frozen Elephant Trunk for Acute Type A Aortic Dissection

Objectives: There are various treatment strategies for acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD). In our department, total arch replacement (TAR) using the Frozen Elephant Trunk (FET) is the standard technique for DeBakey type I, which has a patent false lumen, and we assessed the outcomes and postoperative complications. Methods: Of 71 consecutive patients who underwent surgical treatment for ATAAD at our department from October 2020 to May 2023, 42 patients were included, excluding 29 patients whose the descending aorta was thrombosed or not dissected. Results: Age 64±11 years, 30 male patients (71.4%). Preoperatively, cardiac tamponade was observed in 5 cases, malperfusion in 5 cases of head, 2 cases of coronary artery, 3 cases of celiac artery, 3 cases of superior mesenteric artery, 13 cases of renal artery, and 13 cases of lower limbs. The surgical procedures were ascending aortic replacement (AAR) in 6 cases (14.2%), partial arch replacement (PAR) in 2 cases (4.8%), TAR in 5 cases (11.9%), and TAR with FET in 29 cases (69.0%). The mean operation time was 304±70 minutes, the mean cardiopulmonary bypass time 168±45 minutes, the mean cardiac arrest time 100±26 minutes, the mean circulatory arrest time 42±8 minutes, and the mean minimum bladder temperature 26.1±1.4°C. There was no hospital death, and complications included new stroke in 2 patients (4.8%). The residual dissection was AAR5/6 (83.3%), PAR1/2 (50.0%), TAR5/5 (100%), and TAR with FET24/29 (82.8%), of which AAR5/5 (100%), PAR1/1 (100%), TAR2/5 (40.0%), and TAR with FET1/24 (4.2%) had residual dissection in the proximal descending aorta. There were 3 deaths (meningitis, cerebral hemorrhage, gastrointestinal hemorrhage) with a mean follow-up of 8.9±6.7 months. The only additional treatment was preemptive TEVAR in 1 case (2.4%) for residual dissection of proximal descending aorta of TAR with FET. There was no case of stent induced new entry. Conclusions: We consider the early results for ATAAD to be favorable. Furthermore, TAR with FET promotes good thrombosis and remodeling down to the proximal descending level, suggesting that FET may contribute to improved outcomes during follow-up period. Further clinical research on mid-term outcomes is needed.

Abstract 18173: Spinal Cord Protective Strategy Before Extensive Surgical Procedure for Patients With Acute Type A Aortic Dissection

Introduction: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating complication following total arch replacement (TAR) with frozen elephant trunk (FET) procedure in acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD). This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of spinal cord protective strategy (SCPS) implemented before this extensive procedure. Methods: Between January 2013 and December 2021, a total of 1105 ATAAD patients underwent TAR with FET procedure. SCPS included preoperative assessment of segment number of the false lumen closest to the spinal cord between T9-L3 level. If segment number exceeded 5, indicating high risk of postoperative SCI, prophylactic cerebrospinal fluid drainage would be conducted. SCPS was performed since June 2017 at our institution (703 patients). The remaining 402 patients were served as the control group. The two groups were compared to assess the efficacy of SCPS in preventing SCI. Results: The average age was significantly higher in the SCPS group (48.9±11.1 vs 46.6±10.0, P<0.001). The patients in SCPS group presented with higher percentage of coma (P<0.001). The mean duration of cardiopulmonary bypass was significantly longer in SCPS group (P<0.001), while the mean duration of hypothetical cardiac arrest was significantly lower (P<0.001). Propensity score matching was conducted, resulting in a matched sample of 186 patients from each group to adjust for differences in patient characteristics. The incidence of postoperative SCI was significantly lower in SCPS group (1.7% vs 7.2%, P<0.001). Propensity score matching demonstrated higher estimated incremental protective efficacy of SCPS (1.1% vs 9.7%, P<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that preoperative SCPS was an independent protective factor for postoperative SCI (OR=0.226, 95% CI: 0.114-0.448, P<0.001). Conclusions: The implementation of preoperative SCPS is an effective strategy for reducing the incidence of SCI follow extensive surgical procedure in ATAAD.

Abstract 13601: Distinct Proteomic Profiles in Human Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm by Segment May Drive Prognostic Differences: Conventional & Machine Learning Analysis

Background: Acute Type A Aortic Dissection (ATAD) is a surgical emergency with 18% mortality. Anatomic segment (root, ascending, arch, descending) impacts aneurysm natural history but mechanisms remain unclear. Aim: To compare proteomic profiles of human thoracic aortic segments that could account for distinct phenotypes and clinical outcomes; to analyze the largest cohort to date with enhanced depth of coverage. Methods: Aortic tissues were collected (N=148) from 82 unique individuals and analyzed using our customized proteomics protocol ( Figure 1A ). Conventional statistics, machine learning (t-distributed Stochastic Neighbour Embedding, t-SNE), and functional enrichment analyses were used to characterize significant phenotypic differences by segment. Differential protein expression was validated using immunofluorescence. Results: From all samples, 7251 proteins were identified (5660 quantified), exceeding literature (by 100s-1000s). Significant differences were greatest in comparisons of root, ascending, and descending aorta ( Figure 1B-C ). Root vs descending and ascending vs descending comparisons had clear separation in t-SNE analysis; root and ascending samples also clustered modestly ( Figure 1D ). MFAP4, a cellular-binding protein previously associated with descending thoracic dissection in Marfan patients, was significantly elevated in ascending aortic segments compared to root and descending. This was validated by immunofluorescence ( Figure 1E ). Conclusions: We extensively profiled thoracic aneurysm tissue using enhanced coverage, customized proteomics from the largest known cohort of human samples. Thoracic aneurysm phenotype differs by aortic segment as a function of intrinsic biochemical (proteomic) processes. Potential thoracic aneurysm biomarkers likely must account for aortic segment. Multiomic integrative analysis (DNA, RNA, post-translational data) are underway.

Study on preoperative treatment of acute Type-A aortic dissection with endotracheal intubation combined with deep analgesia and sedation.

To investigate the efficacy and safety of endotracheal intubation combined with deep analgesia and sedation in the prevention of preoperative dissection rupture in acute Standford type A aortic dissection. This study evaluated the impact of preoperative endotracheal intubation combined with deep analgesia and sedation on acute Stanford Type-A aortic dissection. Conducted at the First Affiliated Hospital of the University of South China's cardiac intensive care unit from June 2018 to December 2021, 134 diagnosed patients participated. They were divided into experimental (n=42) and control (n=92) groups. Data collected included clinical details, biochemical markers, VAS and SAS scores, and preoperative dissection rupture occurrences. Criteria involved acute Stanford Type-A aortic dissection diagnosis and complete data. Exclusions encompassed rupture, vital sign instability after vasoactive drugs, or prolonged coma. Standardized methods were used for sample collection and analysis. The study's design, duration, and location ensured comprehensive evaluation of the intervention's effects on patients. The experimental group showed significantly fewer deaths due to dissection rupture compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Initial VAS and SAS scores (T0) were similar between groups (P > 0.05), indicating good comparability. However, at T1, T2, and T3, analgesia and sedation were significantly better in the experimental group (P < 0.05). By T4, patient numbers were too low in both groups for a significant difference (P > 0.05). Preoperative endotracheal intubation combined with deep analgesia and sedation in patients with acute Stanford Type-A aortic dissection can produce good analgesic and sedative effects, effectively reduce the incidence of preoperative dissection rupture, and create conditions for subsequent surgical treatment of patients.

The Learning Curve of Total Arch Replacement via Single Upper Hemisternotomy Approach in Aortic Dissection.

Upper hemisternotomy (UHS) has benefits over conventional full sternotomy because it ameliorates trauma during cardiac surgery. Owing to its challenging and technically demanding nature, this incision in acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) has rarely been reported. This study aimed to analyze the learning curve of total arch replacement (TAR) with moderate hypothermic circulatory arrest via a single UHS approach, which is necessary to guide the training of surgeons in adopting minimally invasive procedures. A total of 202 consecutive patients who were definitively diagnosed with ATAAD between July 2016 and June 2021 were enrolled in this retrospective analysis. Patients were divided into three groups based on cumulative sum plots for circulatory arrest time in chronological order. Perioperative characteristics were compared between the groups. There was significant difference in the circulatory arrest time and cross-clamp time respectively among three groups (39.0 min vs 28.0 min vs 15.0 min, P < 0.001; 104.5 min vs 106.2 min vs 84.1 min, P < 0.001). The ventilation time and first 24-h chest tube drainage were statistically different among groups (35.5 h vs 24.0 h vs 19.0 h, P = 0.031; 220.0 mL vs 192.5 mL vs 125.5 mL, P = 0.043). No other clinical outcome was observed as significant difference. A cardiac surgeon can convert a conventional full sternotomy to a single UHS for TAR after experiencing a learning curve, to ensure patient safety. The mastery of this minimally invasive surgical technique may be beneficial for the prognosis of patients with ATAAD.

No sex-based differences exist in clinical outcomes of extended aortic arch repair for acute type A aortic dissection.

Reports regarding the association between sex and clinical outcomes following surgical repair of acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) are not exhaustive and in part even conflicting. A total of 786 eligible adult patients with ATAAD undergoing extended arch repair between January 2015 and December 2021 were included. They were entered into a female group (n=161) or a male group (n=625). In-hospital outcomes (surgical mortality and major postoperative morbidity) and midterm outcomes (survival and aortic reintervention) between the two groups were compared before and after propensity score (PS) matching (1:1). Compared with male subjects, female patients were more likely to be older (median [interquartile range], 57 [46-67] vs. 50 [42-59] years, p<0.001) and to have a lower body mass index, but were less likely to be current smokers. Operative death occurred in 66 patients (6.8% for female vs. 8.8% for male), without significant differences between groups before and after matching (p=0.422 and p>0.999, respectively). Major postoperative morbidity was observed in 313 (39.8%) patients, including 57 (35.4%) female and 256 (41.0%) male patients (p=0.199). Sex-based grouping was not significantly associated with operative mortality or major postoperative morbidity. The 5-year cumulative survival and incidence of aortic reintervention among females were 90.6% and 6.0%, respectively, which were not statistically different from those observed in males before and after matching. No sex-based differences were found in terms of in-hospital and midterm outcomes of extended arch repair for ATAAD.

Sex differences in long-term outcomes following surgery for acute type A aortic dissection: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Recent reports on sex differences in long-term outcomes after surgery for acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) are conflicting. We aimed to aggregate updated data on long-term survival and reoperation stratified by sex. A literature search was conducted using Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Central. Studies reporting sex-stratified long-term survival and/or reoperation following surgery for ATAAD between January 1, 2000, to March 15, 2023 were included. Preoperative characteristics, intraoperative variables, and early perioperative outcomes were meta-analyzed using a random effects model and pooled risk ratio (RR) with men as the reference group. Individual patient-level data for long-term outcomes was reconstructed to generate sex-specific pooled Kaplan-Meier curves to assess long-term survival and freedom from reoperation. A total of 15 studies with 7,608 male and 3,989 female patients were included in this analysis. Female patients were older, had higher rates of hypertension, and had less previous cardiac surgery. Intraoperatively, women received less extensive repairs with lower rates of aortic valve replacement and total arch replacement, and higher rates of hemiarch replacement. There were no sex differences for in-hospital/30-day mortality [risk ratio (RR), 1.18; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.96, 1.45; P=0.12], stroke (RR, 1.07; 95% CI: 0.90, 1.28; P=0.46), and early reoperation (RR, 0.90; 95% CI: 0.75, 1.09; P=0.28). Female patients had lower long-term survival overall (P<0.001) and amongst survivors at 1-year (P=0.014). Overall survival at 5-year was 82.4% in men and 78.1% in women, and at 10-year was 68.1% for men and 63.4% in women. Male patients had higher rates of long-term reoperation (P<0.001). Freedom for reoperation at 5-year was 88.4% in men vs. 93.1% in women. Though perioperative early outcomes have equalized between the sexes following surgery for ATAAD, differences remain in long-term survival and reoperation.

Prediction of Postoperative Acute Kidney Injury Risk Factors for Acute Type A Aortic Dissection Patients after Modified Triple-Branched Stent Graft Implantation by a Perioperative Nomogram: A Retrospective Study

Objective. Predicting risk factors for acute kidney injury (AKI) after total arch replacement via modified triple-branched stent graft (MTBSG) implantation in patients with acute type A aortic dissection (AAAD) by conducting a nomogram. Methods. We collected the clinical data of 254 patients with AAAD who underwent MTBSG implantation surgery in our center. The independent risk factors of postoperative AKI were screened by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis and combined into a nomogram. We use receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, decision curve analysis (DCA), clinical impact curve (CIC), and calibration plots to evaluate the accuracy of the nomogram model. Results. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the risk factors of AKI after MTBSG implantation were age, malperfusion syndrome, preoperative serum creatinine, cardiopulmonary bypass time, and amount of red blood cell (RBC) transfusion. Based on these five risk factors, we established a nomogram model. The good accuracy and clinical applicability of the model were verified by drawing ROC curve (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.854), DCA curve, CIC curve, and calibration curve. Conclusions. Using perioperative clinical data to establish a nomogram model of AKI in patients with AAAD who received MTBSG implantation can be used as a tool to predict the occurrence of AKI after operation.

Early outcomes of a triple-branched stent graft implantation in elderly patients with acute type a aortic dissection

PurposeOlder patients with acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) have higher risk of mortality than that of younger patients when a total arch reconstruction (TAR) is required. Triple-branched stent graft (TBSG) implantation is a novel technique for TAR. However, early outcomes of a TBSG implantation in older patients have not been reported. This study aimed to evaluate the early outcomes of the TBSG technique in older patients with ATAAD.MethodsFrom February 2015 to December 2020, 640 patients who simultaneously underwent an emergent open aortic surgery and TBSG implantation for ATAAD were enrolled in this study. They were categorized into the younger (age ≤ 70 years old, n = 573) and older groups (age > 70 years, n = 67). Clinical data of all patients were retrospectively reviewed.ResultThe mean ages of the patients in the younger and older groups were 45.3 ± 9.6 years old and 73.5 ± 3.0 years old, respectively. Preoperative characteristics were similar between the two groups, except for weight and incidence of moderate or greater aortic regurgitation, which were lower in the older group than those in the younger group. Surgical procedure and duration (i.e., duration for cardiopulmonary bypass, aortic cross-clamp, selected cerebral perfusion, and total circulation arrest) were comparable between the two groups (p > 0.05). Patients in the older group had higher incidence of dialysis for acute kidney injury and longer ICU stay compared with those in the younger group. However, the incidences of 30-day mortality (5.1% in younger group vs. 7.5% in older group, p = 0.407) and other major complications (i.e., neurological adverse events) were similar between the two groups.ConclusionTBSG implantation for ATAAD resulted in an acceptable mortality rate in patients above 70 years old, thus, it could be a feasible surgical procedure to perform in older patients with ATAAD when a TAR is required.

Effects of Blood Hemoadsorption Therapy with HA-380 in Total Arch Replacement for Acute Type A Aortic Dissection: A Retrospective Observational Study

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate whether the addition of a hemoadsorption (HA) cartridge, HA-380, in the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) circuit in acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) surgery reduced inflammatory cytokine levels and decreased postoperative complications. Methods: A retrospective observational cohort study was conducted between March 1, 2021, and February 28, 2022. Patients with ATAAD undergoing emergent total arch replacement surgery were divided into the control (CON) and HA groups on the basis of the addition of the HA-380 cartridge in the CPB circuit. Results: Overall, 121 patients met the eligibility criteria; 2 patients in each group who died within the first postoperative week were excluded. Further, 57 and 60 patients in the CON and HA groups, respectively, were included in the pooled analysis. The major perioperative data, baseline values of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein, and therapeutic interventions were similar in the two groups (all, p > 0.05). The serum IL-6 levels increased more rapidly in the CON group than those in the HA group postoperatively (205.73 ± 174.72 vs. 146.13 ± 64.15 pg/mL, p = 0.020). The HA group had a lower incidence of postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) and severe acute respiratory distress syndrome than the CON group (25.4 vs. 44.6%, p = 0.032 and 18.3 vs. 35.1%, p = 0.040, respectively). Logistic regression analyses showed that HA may be a protective factor against postoperative AKI. The incidence of bleeding, delirium, and stroke as well as the lengths of intensive care unit and hospital stay in both groups were similar (all, p > 0.05). Conclusions: The use of HA-380 in the CPB circuit may attenuate inflammatory response and reduce major complications following ATAAD surgery. HA may be associated with lower rate of postoperative AKI.

Risk Factors for Post-Operative Multi-Drug-Resistant Organism Bacterial Infection in Patients With Stanford Acute Type A Aortic Dissection.

Background: To explore the risk factors for multi-drug-resistant organism (MDRO) infection in patients with Stanford acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD). We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the data of post-operative patients with ATAAD in our hospital. Patients and Methods: This study included 82 post-operative patients with ATAAD in the past decade. They were divided into a MDRO group (n = 31) and a non-MDRO group (n = 51) according to whether they had acquired multi-drug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infection. Multivariable logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors for MDR infections in patients with ATAAD. Results: The incidence of multi-drug-resistant bacterial infection was 37.80%. Seventeen factors, including hospital stay (p = 0.007), utilization of third-generation cephalosporins (p = 0.0068), antibiotic species of exposure (p = 0.0002), leukocyte-depleted red blood cell suspension dosage (p < 0.0001), fresh frozen plasma dosage (p < 0.0001), application of blood purification (p = 0.0493), and the total antibiotic days of exposure (p = 0.0001) diverged between the two groups (all p < 0.05). The logistic regression analysis revealed that the utilization of third-generation cephalosporins (odds ratio [OR], 2.32; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01-5.33; p = 0.0478), antibiotic species of exposure (OR, 5.76; 95% CI, 1.45-22.83; p = 0.0128), leukocyte-depleted red blood cell suspension dosage (OR, 12.43; 95% CI, 2.71-57.07; p = 0.0012), and fresh frozen plasma dosage (OR, 5.05; 95% CI, 1.18-21.56; p = 0.0286) were independent variables for MDRO infections. Among the 23 drug-resistant bacteria detected, Acinetobacter baumannii was the main pathogen. Conclusions: Our study shows that the utilization of third-generation cephalosporins, antibiotic species of exposure, leukocyte-depleted red blood cell suspension dosage, and fresh frozen plasma dosage were independent risk factors for post-operative multi-drug-resistant infection in patients with ATAAD. Acinetobacter baumannii occupied the largest share of resistant bacteria that induce infection in post-operative patients with ATAAD.

"Drum Tower Hospital" strategy for acute type A aortic dissection with coma.

Acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) with persistent coma is a life-threatening condition associated with high mortality and poor neurological outcomes. The optimal timing for surgical intervention in these patients remains uncertain, and many patients are not eligible for surgery due to their poor prognosis. In this case, a 53-year-old man with hypertension presented to the emergency department in a coma that had lasted for 9hours. The patient was diagnosed with ATAAD and underwent the "Drum Tower Hospital" strategy, which involved preoperative assessments, including computed tomography angiography (CTA) and quantitative electroencephalogram (qEEG) monitoring. Surgical interventions, such as emergency stenting and aortic replacement, were performed to restore blood flow and repair the aorta. Postoperative monitoring, including qEEG, showed improvements in brain function. Despite the patient experiencing hemiplegia and a neurological deficit, the "Drum Tower Hospital" strategy, guided by comprehensive brain assessments, showed promise in managing ATAAD with coma. However, further research is needed to establish effective treatment strategies for these patients. Overall, ATAAD with persistent coma is a critical condition with limited treatment options. The "Drum Tower Hospital" strategy, supported by multimodal brain assessment, offers a potential approach to improve outcomes in these patients.