Aortic Dissection Surgery

Aortic dissection surgery is a life-saving, often emergency procedure to repair a tear in the aorta's inner layer. Type A dissections (ascending aorta) require immediate open-heart surgery to replace the damaged section with a synthetic graft, whereas Type B (descending aorta) may use less invasive stenting (TEVAR)

. Recovery involves1–2 weeks in the hospital, with full healing taking months. 

Johns Hopkins Medicine +4

Types of Surgery

• Open-Heart Surgery (Type A): Surgeons make a large incision in the chest, stop the heart (using a bypass machine), and replace the torn aorta with a synthetic tube graft.

• Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair (TEVAR) (Type B): A minimally invasive, catheter-based approach that inserts a stent graft into the aorta via a small puncture in the groin.

• Hybrid Procedures: A combination of open surgical techniques and stenting, particularly when the arch is involved. 

  NYU Langone Health +4

Recovery and Aftercare

• Hospital Stay: Patients typically stay 7 to 14 days, with the first 1–2 days in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

• Initial Recovery: Patients are advised not to drive for 3–4 weeks.

• Physical Restrictions: No lifting heavier than 5 pounds for 6 weeks, with a focus on rehabilitation to regain strength.

• Follow-Up: Patients often start a Cardiac Rehabilitation program after 4–8 weeks. 

  Johns Hopkins Medicine +2

Risks and Outcomes

• Risks: Complications can include stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, bleeding, or paralysis.

• Survival Rates: With prompt treatment, the 5-year survival rate is approximately 70%–80%.

• Lifelong Care: Long-term management involves strict blood pressure control to prevent further tears or complications. 

#thinkaorta

#thinkaortathinkfamily