Thoracic endovascular aortic repair for traumatic type B aortic dissection: a 5-year experience from a single center.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this paper was to share our experience and demonstrate the feasibility, safety and efficacy of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for traumatic type B aortic dissection (TTBAD).

METHODS: Between October 2010 and October 2015, 36 patients, who have been diagnosed as TTBAD, were included. A computed tomography angiography (CTA) scan was performed to confirm the diagnosis and to localize the aortic entry. The clinical data and outcomes of these patients were retrospectively reviewed and collected for further analysis. CTA scan follow-up was organized 1 week, 3 months, 6 months and yearly after the procedure.

RESULTS: Thirty-six cases (48.7±15.8 years, 25 men) were included in this study. All the patients were successfully managed with TEVAR, and the perioperative mortality and 30-day mortality were zero. The mean hospitalization time was 14.6±8.4 days, with the mean intensive care unit (ICU) stay time being 44.4±62.4 hours. After TEVAR, no cardiocerebral events happened, but 6 patients suffered from pulmonary infection, 1 patient suffered from renal failure, and type I endoleak occurred in 1 patient. The postoperative courses of the other patients were uneventful. All the patients were followed-up for 13.1±12.6 months, and we could affirm the stability of the implants and good quality of life of the included patients.

CONCLUSIONS: Treatment of TTBAD by TEVAR with implantation of stent graft is technical possible, besides, it is remarkably safe and effective.