Open Descending and Thoracoabdominal Aortic Repairs in Patients Younger Than 50 Years Old

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to redefine indications of open descending and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair in the younger population.

Methods: Between 1991 and 2017, 2012 patients undergoing descending and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair at our institution were divided into 2 groups for comparison: younger (<50 years; 276 [14%]) and older (≥50 years; 1736 [86%]). Patient demographics and perioperative outcomes were retrospectively reviewed.

Results: Younger patients had significantly more heritable thoracic aortic disease (HTAD; 53% vs 9%, P < .001) and chronic dissections (64% vs 26%, P < .001) and fewer comorbidities. The younger cohort underwent more extent II repairs (28% vs 15%, P < .001). Operative mortality was significantly lower in younger patients (6% vs 17%, P < .001). Significant disabling complications (composite of operative mortality, paraplegia/paraparesis, stroke, and dialysis) were seen in 17% of the younger patients and in 40% of older patients 40% (P < .001). In multivariate analysis, extent of repair and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were independent predictors for significant disabling complications in the younger cohort. Additional aortic interventions were required in 12% in the younger group and in 4% in the older group (P < .001), and nearly one-third were in the treated segment (ie, treatment failure) in both groups. Younger patients requiring additional reintervention had significantly higher incidence of HTAD (66% vs 9%, P < .001). Survival rate was significantly higher in the younger patient group, with a 10-year survival rate of 74.6% ± 2.9% vs 40.7% ± 1.3% (log-rank P < .001).

Conclusions: Patients younger than 50 years with descending and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm have low surgical risks, and open repairs can be performed with excellent short-term and durable long-term results. Open surgical repairs should be considered initially in younger patients requiring descending and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repairs. HTAD warrants closer postoperative surveillance.