Direct Cannulation of Ascending Aorta versus Standard Femoral Artery Cannulation in Acute Aortic Dissection Type A.

BACKGROUND

During surgery for ascending aortic dissection, the dissected ascending aorta itself has traditionally been rejected as a cannulation option. The purpose of this study is to prove that direct cannulation of the ascending aorta in patients operated for acute aortic dissection type A (AADA) is at least as effective and safe as classic femoral cannulation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Between September 2008 and January 2015, we operated on 117 patients with AADA through median sternotomy. Cannulation was accomplished in 32 cases (27%) through the femoral artery (group A), and in 85 patients (73%) through the dissected ascending aorta (group B). Moderate hypothermic circulatory arrest with bilateral antegrade cerebral perfusion was used in 108 patients (92%). The mean time of circulatory arrest was 17 minutes (range: 9-52 minutes). The 30-day mortality rate was 22% (7 patients) in group A, and 18% (15 patients) in group B (P = not significant). Temporary neurologic dysfunction (TND) including postoperative confusion, delirium, or agitation occurred in four patients (13%) in group A, and four patients (5%) in group B (P = not significant). The incidence of permanent neurologic dysfunction (stroke) was 9% (3 patients) in group A and 3% (3 patients) in group B.

CONCLUSIONS

The direct cannulation of the ascending aorta is a safe alternative for patients with AADA, offering the opportunity for antegrade cerebral perfusion. It is easy to perform, reliable, and associated with acceptable early results.