Background:
Young patients (pts) with acute aortic dissection (AAD) have distinct risk factors and presenting symptoms compared to older pts, but whether these differences extend past discharge is relatively unknown.
Methods:
Among pts presenting with AAD enrolled in the International Registry of Acute Aortic Dissection, pts <40 (N=280) were compared with pts ≥ 40 (N=3585). Chi-square analysis or Fischer’s Exact test were performed for categorical variables; age was compared using Student’s T-test. Kaplan-Meier curves were generated for freedom from adverse events rates 0-60 months following discharge. Mean follow-up was 28.6 months.
Results:
Significant differences in demographics and history were noted between pts <40 and the older cohort. Young pts more commonly had type A AAD (71.8%, 201/280, v. 64.6%, 2317/ 3585, p<0.016), while type B AAD was more typical in older pts (p<0.016). On imaging studies, pts <40 were less likely to present with IMH (7.3%, 246/3355, v. 2.3%, 6/266, p=0.002), but were more likely to have a patent false lumen (77.9%, 141/181, v. 62.1%, 1425/2295, p<0.001). Surgical management was more common in young pts, for both AAD types. In-hospital complications or mortality did not differ between groups. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated better long-term survival in young pts compared to those ≥ 40 (p=0.029). Kaplan-Meier analyses of freedom from adverse events at 5 years illustrated no difference in aortic growth between groups, but significantly more late interventions in younger pts (p=0.006).
Conclusions:
Young pts show distinct differences in comparison to older pts, specifically regarding presentation, AAD type and management. Long-term survival and follow-up intervention rates are higher in young pts.