Risk factor analysis for ascending aorta and aortic arch repair using selective cerebral perfusion with open...

The present study was designed to identify risk factors that may induce adverse outcome defined as permanent neurological dysfunction and mortality after aortic arch surgery using selective cerebral perfusion by logistic regression analysis and to reveal the role of open stent-graft placement.

One hundred and nineteen consecutive patients underwent ascending aorta and/or aortic arch operation with open technique between 1995 and 2005 were examined. Ascending aorta and/or hemiarch was replaced in 28 patients, total arch in 75 patients, and proximal or distal aortic arch replacement in 16 patients. Open stent-graft placement was used in 25 patients.

The in-hospital mortality rate was 9.2%. Permanent neurological dysfunction occurred in 10 patients (8.4%). Thoracotomy (P=0.0331) and cardiopulmonary bypass time (P=0.0238) were significant risk factors for permanent neurological dysfunction. Preoperative shock (P=0.0266) was significant independent risk factor for mortality. Emergent operation (P=0.0454), thoracotomy (P=0.0232), and cardiopulmonary bypass time (P=0.0379) were significant independent risk factors for adverse outcome. The duration of selective cerebral perfusion was not associated with adverse outcome. Open stent-graft placement has no need of thoracotomy for aneurysm extending descending thoracic aorta and time variables concerning the operation were significantly shorter in the patients with open stent-graft placement than in patients with standard operation for total arch replacement.

Thoracotomy was significant risk factor for adverse outcome after aortic arch repair using selective cerebral perfusion. Total arch replacement with open stent-graft placement can avoid the need of thoracotomy and reduce time variables concerning the operation to improve the surgical