Cerebral Protection Strategies in Aortic Arch Surgery—Past Developments, Current Evidence, and Future Innovation

Surgery of the aortic arch remains a complex procedure, with neurological events such as stroke remaining its most dreaded complications. Changes in surgical technique and the continuous innovation in neuroprotective strategies have led to a significant decrease in cerebral and spinal events. Different modes of cerebral perfusion, varying grades of hypothermia, and a number of pharmacological strategies all aim to reduce hypoxic and ischemic cerebral injury, yet there is no evidence indicating the clear superiority of one method over another. While surgical results continue to improve, novel hybrid and interventional techniques are just entering the stage and the question of optimal neuroprotection remains up to date. Within this perspective statement, we want to shed light on the current evidence and controversies of cerebral protection in aortic arch surgery, as well as what is on the horizon in this fast-evolving field. We further present our institutional approach as a large tertiary aortic reference center.