Revascularization-first strategy in acute aortic dissection with mesenteric malperfusion

Background: Mesenteric malperfusion is a complication with a higher risk of in-hospital mortality because diagnosing mesenteric ischemia before necrotic change is difficult, and when it occurs, the patient’s condition has worsened. Although it contradicts the previous consensus on central repair-first strategy, the revascularization-first strategy was found to be significantly associated with lower mortality rates. The aim of this study is to present our revascularization-first strategy and assess the postoperative results for acute aortic dissection involving mesenteric malperfusion. Methods: Among 58 patients with acute type A aortic dissection at our hospital between January 2017 and December 2019, mesenteric malperfusion was noted in six. Four hemodynamically stable patients underwent mesenteric revascularization with endovascular intervention in a hybrid operation room before central repair, and two hemodynamically unstable patients underwent central repair before mesenteric revascularization. Results: No in-hospital mortality was recorded. All four patients with mesenteric revascularization-first strategy recovered with no symptoms related to mesenteric ischemia. Two patients with central repair-first strategy developed paralytic ileus for 1 week; one of them needed explorative laparotomy, but no patients needed colon resection. Conclusion: The revascularization-first strategy in cases of acute type A aortic dissection with mesenteric malperfusion may achieve favorable results. However, in cases with other-major organ malperfusion or having hemodynamically unstable status, the appropriate strategy is controversial. Close evaluation of mesenteric perfusion using multiple modalities and prompt revascularization are mandatory in these complicated cases. A hybrid operation room provides an ideal environment for this revascularization-first strategy.