Definitions
An acute type A aortic dissection was defined as a separation of the
aortic layers providing a true and a false lumen for the blood flow,
presenting within 14 days of symptom onset and extending distally from
the aortic root or ascending aorta (Stanford A). Surgical mortality was
defined as death within 30 days of surgery. Intraoperative bleeding was
defined as blood loss collected and quantified using intraoperative cell
salvage and surgical gauze swabs. Postoperative stroke was defined as a
permanent loss of neurological function caused by an ischemic event with
or without confirmation with computed tomography or magnetic resonance
imaging. Renal replacement therapy (RRT) was defined as any need for
continuous hemofiltration or hemodialysis postoperatively. Cardiac
tamponade was defined as pericardial effusion that required pericardial
drainage or re-exploration.