Decision-Making in Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm Surgery—Clinician and Patient View

Abstract

Treatment decision-making in thoracic aortic aneurysms of the ascending aorta is complex both with regard to the timing of surgery and with regard to the invasive treatment strategy. From a clinician perspective, it is seen as important to balance the risks of watchful waiting versus preventive surgery and to choose a surgical treatment strategy that will result in the lowest early and late event occurrence. The current clinical practice guidelines and reported outcomes after surgery suggest that there are many gray zones in determining the optimal timing and the type of intervention. From a patient perspective, quality of life and in particular minimization of anxiety and depression due to the fear of aortic rupture or the potential occurrence of complications related to the different treatment strategies are important to consider. Quality of life studies and evidence on the importance of patient participation in decision-making make a strong case for evidence-based shared treatment decision in this complex patient group.