The thrombosed type was defined as aortic dissection without flow in the false lumen of the aorta on contrast-enhanced computed tomography. Surgery was indicated for all cases of type A acute aortic dissection, and central repair operations were performed and diagnoses were proved. The thrombosed type was associated with a significantly higher mean age (69 vs 60 years), a higher incidence of cardiac tamponade and a lower incidence of malperfusion than classic dissection. Entry tears were located in the ascending aorta and the arch with thrombosed type. An intimal tear has been confirmed intraoperatively. Mortality was significantly lower in patients with thrombosed-type dissection (6%) than in those with classic dissection.