Abstract

Acute type a aortic dissection is a catastrophic event in which blood exits the vascular lumen and dissects the media, creating a false lumen. Surgery is the best possible treatment but it is complex. The surgical team needs to understand the anatomy and physiopathology before dealing with the repair. While there are just a few surgical solutions for the repair of the dissected ascending aorta, debate is still ongoing about the best surgical option for the disease involving the arch and the descending aorta. Late reoperations are relatively common on the aortic valve and/or the distal aorta after primary repair. Results are excellent in specialized centers with high volume and complexity. Lifelong follow-up is required in survivors.

Keywords: Aortic dissection; Intramural hematoma; Penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer; Acute aortic syndrome; Aortic rupture; Aortic surgery; Malperfusion