Hybrid arch frozen elephant trunk repair for acute type A aortic dissection: Extra-anatomic subclavian reconstruction

Abstract

Acute type A aortic dissection is a life-threatening condition that confers significant early perioperative risk but is also associated with late aortic disease progression and the need for reintervention. Recent efforts to improve patient outcomes have focused on improving quality of care and extending treatment in the aortic root and arch to reduce late aortic events. The hybrid arch frozen elephant trunk technique facilitates a more aggressive distal aortic repair that may help mitigate the early and late deleterious effects of persistent false lumen perfusion. However, in the acute and emergency settings, management of the left subclavian artery remains a challenge. We present a step-by-step instructional guide on performing an emergency hybrid arch frozen elephant trunk procedure with emphasis on management of the difficult left subclavian artery. Our case report demonstrates a transthoracic aortoaxillary extra-anatomic bypass of the left axillary artery. We discuss the most important considerations when managing the left subclavian artery in an acute type A aortic dissection. Finally, we detail the benefits and limitations of the transthoracic aortoaxillary extra-anatomic technique and discuss other approaches to left subclavian artery reconstruction.

Keywords: Acute type A aortic dissection; Antegrade cerebral perfusion; Aortic; Aortic arch; Aortic arch branched graft; Aortic arch replacement; Aortic dissection; Aortic root; Cerebral protection; Frozen elephant trunk technique; Malperfusion; Spinal cord ischemia; Spinal cord protection.