Quality of Life After Type A Aortic Dissection Surgery: The QUADS Study
As more people survive aortic dissection, it is vital to study how we can optimise their quality of life...
This research project has conducted a national audit investigating the quality of life (QoL) of patients after Type A Aortic Dissection Surgery in the UK. This is an under-researched area, where significant improvements in care should be possible. The study aims to assess quality of life after aortic dissection, investigate long term complications and other developments in patients and evaluate the aortic service experience from a patient’s perspective.
The project is led by Dr. Brianda Ripoll, Cardiothoracic Surgery Trainee at the University of Hull, supported by Consultant Aortic Surgeon, Miss Ana Lopez-Marco, at Barts Heart Centre, one of the UK's leading specialist Aortic centres. Aortic Dissection Awareness UK & Ireland formed a Patient & Public Involvement (PPI) group to support the project. This comprises a group of Type-A Aortic Dissection survivors who provided input to the design and validation of the QoL questionnaire to ensure it was appropriate and patient-friendly. We also supported dissemination of the questionnaire and identification of patient who wished to participate in the study and provided an opportunity for Brianda to present her findings back to the patient community.
We were very proud of Brianda presenting the results of this study at the 2023 European Association for Cardiothoracic Surgery meeting in Vienna. A publication is expected soon.
