Scandinavian trial of Uncomplicated Aortic Dissection Therapy
The SUNDAY Trial is a randomized study evaluating whether adding TEVAR to standard therapy improves five-year survival in uncomplicated type-B aortic dissection. Secondary outcomes include mortality, neurological events, quality of life, costs, and reinterventions. Subgroup analyses will assess treatment extent.
Find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions here. For more detailed information, please visit the full FAQ section in the main menu.
What is an Aortic Dissection?
An aortic dissection is a tear in the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the body (figure 1). It causes severe back pain, but sometimes in the chest or abdomen.
Medical evaluation and treatment are essential. Depending on test results, immediate surgery may be needed, or doctors may opt for monitoring. A dissection is "complicated" if it is life-threatening or causes severe symptoms, while "uncomplicated" means it is not immediately dangerous but still requires careful management.
Treatment Options
Aortic dissections are managed with medications and, in some cases, surgery. The main surgical procedure, TEVAR (Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair), involves placing a stent in the aorta to cover the tear, relieve pain, and prevent further damage. (Figure 2)
What is a TEVAR?
As mentioned above, a TEVAR is a type of stent with a covering fabric that can be placed in the aorta to cover the tear. See Figures 1 and 2 for a graphical representation.
What is a Randomized Controlled Trial?
A randomized controlled trial (RCT) compares different treatments or approaches in a fairand unbiased way. It ensures that patients receive safe, standard care while allowing researchers to determine the best treatment strategy.