Features and outcomes of focal intimal disruption in acute type B intramural haematoma

OBJECTIVES A focal intimal disruption (FID) is a risk factor for adverse aorta-related events in patients with acute type B intramural haematoma. This study evaluated the impact of FIDs on overall survival with a selective intervention strategy for large or growing FIDs. Additionally, this study evaluated the risk factors associated with the growth of FIDs. METHODS This retrospective study included all consecutive patients admitted for acute type B intramural haematomas between November 2004 and April 2021. The primary outcome was overall survival. The secondary outcome was the cumulative incidence of composite aortic events and the growth of FIDs. The latter was calculated on centreline-reconstructed computed tomography images. RESULTS A total of 105 patients were included. A total of 106 FIDs were identified in 73 patients (73/105, 69.5%). The 1- and 5-year cumulative incidence rates of composite aortic events were 36.2% and 39.2%, respectively. The 1- and 5-year overall survival was 93.3% and 81.5%, respectively. Initial maximal aortic diameter and large FIDs during acute phase were significant risk factors for composite aortic events, but not risk factors for overall survival. The early appearance interval of an FID was a significant risk factor for growth of an FID. CONCLUSIONS With a selective intervention strategy for large or growing FIDs, the presence of large FIDs during the acute phase does not affect overall survival. The early appearance interval was associated with the growth of FIDs.