This is a congenitial condition that causes a narrowing of the aorta of the heart at or near the “ductus arteriosus”

A main result is an increase in blood pressure also called hypertension

***Any young adults having an elevated blood pressure should be checked for Coarctation of the Aorta.

Three main Types

1.)    Preductal Coarctation

-   Narrowing occurs before the ductus arteriosus
-   This narrowing largely affects the blood flow
-    Severe coarctation can be life-threatening
-    This type is seen in 5% of infants with Turner Syndrome

2.)    Ductal Coarctation

-    Narrowing occurs at the insertion of the ductus arteriosus

3.)    Postductal Coarctation

-    Narrowing is distal to the ductus arteriosus
-    Can affect the lower body
-    Most common type in adults
-    There can be notching of the ribs, hypertension, and weak pulses.

Symptoms 

-    Cardiac failure in infancy is relatively common
-    Hypertension
-    Strong pulsations in neck
-    Increased pressure in arms but legs are normal or low
-    Cardiac murmurs

Diagnosis

ECG is helpful in some cases.
X-ray can be useful
Echocardiography/Doppler is essential to confirm the diagnosis
MRI and CT are often helpful for involvement

Treatment

•         Surgery
•         Balloon Angioplasty
•         Percutaneous stenting