Improving outcomes of surgery for acute type A aortic dissection

Background. It remains equivocal if acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) surgical outcomes are improving. We analyzed current outcome trends to evaluate improvements and to identify predicting variables. Methods. From 2015 to 2020, 204 patients underwent surgery for ATAAD and were divided into recent (n = 102) and earlier (n = 102) groups. Uni- and multivariable statistical analysis was performed to identify predictors of 30-day mortality. Results. Thirty-day mortality decreased significantly in the recent group (3.9% vs 14.6%, p = .014). Prevalence of neurological insult also decreased significantly (13% vs 25%, p = .028). Other major complications remained unchanged. There was no statistically significant difference in overall 30-day mortality between low-volume vs high-volume surgeons (12.3% vs 7.3%, p = .21). The number of surgeons performing ATAAD procedures decreased from nine in 2015 to five in 2020. Preoperative lactate (OR 1.24, 95%CI 1.03-1.51), dissection of any arch vessel (OR 14.2, 95%CI 1.79-113), non-normal left ventricular ejection fraction (OR 12.5, 95%CI 2.54-61.6), biological composite graft (OR 19.1, 95%CI 2.75-133), concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting (OR 38.8, 95%CI 2.91-517) and intraoperative adverse event (OR 9.5, 95%CI 2.22-40.9) were statistically significant independent predictors of mortality. Conclusions. Early outcomes after ATAAD improved in the most recent experience. Part of the explanation may be fewer surgeons performing more procedures annually, a relatively conservative approach to the extent of aortic resection and ensuring adequate cerebral protection. Major complications remain prevalent and require attention to be further reduced.