Natural history of isolated abdominal aortic dissection: A prospective cohort study

ObjectivesIsolated abdominal aortic dissection (IAAD) is extremely rare, with its optimal treatment and intervention timing remaining poorly understood. We aimed to study the natural history of IAAD and facilitate better clinical decision. MethodsConsecutive patients admitted to our institution from January 2016 to April 2021 were enrolled and followed up prospectively. All-cause death was taken as the primary endpoint. ResultsA total of 68 patients with IAAD were included. The mean age at presentation was 61.2 +/- 14.8 (Range: 26.0, 93.0) years and 55 (80.9%) were male. A total of 38 (55.9%) patients were treated conservatively, 27 (39.7%) received endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), and 3 (4.4%) underwent open surgery. After a mean follow-up of 2.4 years (Range: 0.1, 5.5), 9 (13.2%) patients died, 8 of whom (21.0%) were treated conservatively and 1 EVAR (3.7%). Compared with EVAR/open surgery, patient treated conservatively had a much worse survival (p = 0.043). There was no significant difference between different IAAD aortic sizes regarding mortality (p = 0.220). Patients with completely thrombosed false lumen fared improved survival rate, followed by partial thrombosis and patency, respectively, although not significantly (p = 0.190). No significant difference was observed between male and female concerning survival rate (p = 0.970). Patients without symptoms had a significantly improved survival (p = 0.048). ConclusionOn the basis of patients' preference and surgeons' experience, a more aggressive treatment regimen for IAAD should be considered, with EVAR being the first choice, especially for those with persistent symptoms and patent false lumen, regardless of sex, age, or aortic size.

Automated summary

This study aimed to investigate the natural history of isolated abdominal aortic dissection (IAAD) and provide guidance for clinical decision-making. The results showed that patients treated with endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) had a higher survival rate compared to conservative treatment and open surgery. The choice of treatment for IAAD should be based on patient preference and surgeon experience, with EVAR being the preferred option.