Aortic disease 101: Breaking down myths of type A aortic dissection for patients and families

Abstract

Objectives: Patients with Type A aortic dissections are often overwhelmed by the influx of new information and changes necessary to adjust to life with an aortic disease. This article uses psychoeducation about life after dissection to dispel common myths about aortic disease and empower patients to live full lives. It is written in clear and easy-to-understand language to maximise patient comprehension and knowledge of their condition to help them feel more confident after Type A aortic dissection. Design: An interdisciplinary group of professionals (including cardiothoracic surgeons, a clinical cardiac psychologist, clinical cardiac psychology trainees, and genetic counsellors) were asked about their interest in creating an article written for patients who have undergone Type A aortic dissection repair. Those who agreed were then asked to report some of the myths commonly heard in practice about the procedure and its ramifications. Setting: The myths confronted in this article come from professionals working for a comprehensive heart care institute, the East Carolina Heart Institute in Greenville, NC, USA and Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, MD, USA. Methods: A multi-disciplinary group of professionals focused on aortic disease contributed myths commonly reported by patients seen in practice. Results: Common myths are presented and include safety fears about physical activity, diet, and recurrence of aortic dissection. By educating yourself about the facts of your diagnosis, you can feel as though you have more control over your health and your life. Conclusion: The takedown of common myths about life post-dissection can be helpful for patients with aortic disease and their families. Understanding the facts about a loved one’s new diagnosis can help partners and caregivers to be more fully involved in the patient’s care and feel confident. An important limitation of the present work is the lack of prior research on patient quality of life and mental health following Type A aortic dissection. Future work should explore the unique mental health needs of patients with aortic disease to create interventions that target mental health symptomatology to help patients live longer, healthier and richer lives.