Treatment of acute aortic dissection type A (AADA): technical considerations.

Aortic dissection is one of the the most common and lethal catastrophes involving the aorta. Speedy diagnosis, as well as appropriate therapy are essential for survival of the patients. Because the clinical presentation in patients suffering AADA can differ substantially, discussion concerning specific surgical therapy remains controversial. This implies questions regarding the treatment of the aortic root as well as the aortic arch and the proximal descending aorta. The current manuscript raises important issues regarding surgical treatment of AADA patients which are discussed in the light of the institutional policy in the author's department.