Epidemiological Patterns of Acute Type-A Aortic Dissection in Regional New South Wales - A 10-year Analysis

Abstract

Abstract Background: Acute Aortic Dissection (AD) is a surgical emergency with significant mortality without prompt diagnosis and operative intervention. The management is time critical and regional Australia represents an area of interest owing to its large distances and often paucity of resources. No previous studies examining Type-A AD in regional Australia have been done. The aim of this study is to illustrate the epidemiological trends in Type-A AD within a regional population of Australia. The primary outcomes are prevalence and mortality. The secondary outcomes are assessment of risk factors, challenges in diagnosis and associated complications. Methods: A retrospective analysis was undertaken in the Hunter New England (HNE) health district of New South Wales (NSW), Australia. We retrospectively examined data from 2010 to 2020 in the population of the Hunter New England health district. The data was analysed using Microsoft Excel and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results: The prevalence of Type-A AD in the HNE was 1.47 per 100,000 and mortality was 2.12 per 100,000 which was lower compared to previous studies. Five percent of patients identified as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander. Combined risk factors of smoking and hypertension, postoperative CVA and misdiagnosis demonstrated higher mortality which were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study is the first study to illustrate Type-A AD in regional Australia. The epidemiological trends, analysis and risk factor profiles present a solid foundation for future prospective studies to be based on to ultimately allow better patient outcomes.