Turn down of acute aortic syndrome cases during COVID-19: Results from UK multicentre studies

Marius Roman1, Amer Harky2,3,4, Andrew Brazier5

  • 1Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Glenfield Hospital, Leicester, UK.

Journal of Cardiac Surgery
|November 10, 2020
PubMed

Insights

During the COVID-19 pandemic, acute aortic syndrome (AAS) patients maintained access to emergency cardiac surgery. Patient selection and surgical timing ensured essential services continued, with outcomes comparable to pre-pandemic levels.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Emergency Medicine
  • Public Health

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted healthcare systems globally.
  • Resource prioritization for COVID-19 patients raised concerns about access to emergency treatments for other critical conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess emergency treatment access for acute aortic syndrome (AAS) patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • To evaluate the outcomes of AAS patients during the peak of the pandemic.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data.
  • Data gathered from 19 UK cardiac surgery centers between March and June 2020.
  • Inclusion of 95 patients presenting with AAS.

Main Results:

  • 89% of AAS patients underwent surgery; 7% were declined due to comorbidities.
  • No significant restrictions in AAS treatment access were observed.
  • 43% of conservatively treated patients survived 30 days.

Conclusions:

  • Life-threatening aortic surgery services were sustained during the pandemic.
  • Patient selection and surgical timing were key to maintaining services.
  • Surgical turn-down rates remained comparable to pre-pandemic figures.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:21

Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
100
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies01:30

Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies

Diagnosing acute coronary syndrome or ACS begins with a thorough patient history. Notable symptoms include central, crushing chest pain radiating to the left arm, neck, jaw, or back, along with shortness of breath, sweating (diaphoresis), nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and palpitations.It is crucial to note any history of cardiac illnesses and assess risk factors, including age, gender, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and a sedentary lifestyle.During physical examination, vital...
112
Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management01:25

Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management

Aortic regurgitation (AR) is when the aortic valve does not close or seal properly, leading to backward blood circulation from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole. Common causes of AR include rheumatic heart disease, congenital valve defects, and aortic root dilation. Managing AR requires a multifaceted approach to alleviate symptoms, preserve left ventricular function, and address the underlying cause of the regurgitation. Patients with symptomatic AR or significant left...
199
Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction01:15

Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction

IntroductionAortic regurgitation is characterized by the backward flow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole and arises from the improper closure of the aortic valve. This condition results in left ventricular volume overload and can stem from both acute and chronic etiologies, each contributing uniquely to the disease's progression and symptomatology.Acute and Chronic CausesAcute aortic regurgitation often results from events that suddenly impair the integrity of the...
243
Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests01:22

Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests

Aortic valve regurgitation (AR) occurs when the aortic valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the aorta into the left ventricle. This backflow can result in two distinct clinical presentations: acute and chronic AR, each characterized by its own set of symptoms and physical findings.Acute Aortic RegurgitationAcute AR presents with a sudden onset of severe symptoms. Patients typically experience profound dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest pain, and signs of left...
233
Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations01:19

Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations

The pathophysiology of Acute Coronary Syndrome [ACD] involves several key processes:The main underlying cause of ACD is atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the buildup of lipid-laden plaques within the coronary arteries.As the atherosclerotic plaque grows in the coronary artery, it may become unstable due to the formation of a lipid-rich core and a thin fibrous cap. Inflammatory cells within the plaque, such as macrophages, secrete enzymes that degrade the...
231