Managing acute type A aortic dissections: Is a universal approach feasible?

ABSTRACT

The goal in the treatment of acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) is to resect the primary intimal tear while minimizing associated complications of the disease. This goal can be accomplished by different surgical techniques and operative strategies. The extent of proximal and distal aortic reconstruction and the use of cerebral perfusion adjuncts are highly variable between institutions and within institutions themselves. As operative outcomes for ATAAD have improved considerably over the past decade, the focus has shifted towards extensive aortic reconstruction to minimize aortic reinterventions. However, there remains a distinct difference in how patients with ATAAD are managed in North America when compared with those in East Asia.