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.