Late aortic root redissection following surgical treatment for acute type A aortic dissection using Gelatin-Resorcin-Formalin glue.

OBJECTIVES: Although Gelatin-Resorcin-Formalin (GRF) glue is widely used in surgery for acute aortic dissection, late complications possibly due to the glue, such as late aortic root redissection, have also been reported. We have experienced similar complications, some of which required redo surgeries, and these cases are reviewed.

METHODS: Twenty-six consecutive patients who underwent surgery for acute type A aortic dissection using GRF glue, from December 1996 to February 2001, were retrospectively studied, with a special focus on any late complications and any reoperation.

RESULTS: Of the 21 patients who survived and were followed as outpatients, false aneurysms were found in 5 patients (21%) at 24-42 (mean 34) months following the initial surgery. Of these, 2 patients required resternotomy because of the increasing aneurysm diameter. In both cases, the aortic root was redissected at the site of the GRF glue use where the anastomosis between the aortic root and the prosthesis had widely opened and had become the aneurysm entry point. Significant aortic regurgitation was noticed in 3 patients (14%, 1 of whom showed a false aneurysm), and 2 of these underwent reoperation for aortic root redissection.

CONCLUSIONS: A high incidence of aortic root redissection with false aneurysm and/or aortic insufficiency was found following the surgery for acute aortic dissection using GRF glue. These patients should be carefully followed for years after surgery.