Short- and midterm results after hybrid treatment of chronic aortic dissection with the frozen elephant trunk technique

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine our experience with the frozen elephant trunk in patients with chronic aortic dissection. Methods: In our Institution, between January 2007 and August 2010, 49 patients (mean age: 59.6 ± 9.0 years) underwent total arch replacement with the frozen elephant trunk technique for chronic aortic dissection (type A, n=2; residual type A, n=37; type B, n=10). Forty patients (81.6%) patients had undergone previous cardiovascular procedures. Associated cardiac procedures were indicated in 21 (42.8%) patients. Brain protection was achieved with antegrade selective cerebral perfusion in all cases. Results: Hospital mortality (n=5) was 10.2%. Postoperative serious complications included coma (n=3; 6.1%), paraplegia (n=2; 4.1%), respiratory failure (n=6; 12.2%), and definitive dialysis (n=2; 4.1%). Follow-up was 100% completed (mean period: 12.9 ± 11.7 months). The estimated 1- and 3-year survival rates were 91.2 ± 4.2% and 81.6 ± 6.5%, respectively. Endovascular extension was required in 11 (22.4%) patients, with technical success of 100%. Complete thrombosis of the peri-stent false lumen was achieved in 82.9% of cases, with significant reduction of the false lumen diameter (preoperative: 36 ± 11. mm; postoperative: 24 ± 17. mm; p=0.001) and increase of the true lumen diameter (preoperative: 15 ± 5. mm; postoperative: 26 ± 6. mm; p=0.001). Conclusions: The frozen elephant trunk technique, allowing treatment of extensive disease of the thoracic aorta, was associated with encouraging short- and midterm results. Longer-term follow-up is warranted. © 2011 European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery.