Sign up for our newsletter

Coarctation of the Aorta is a congenitial condition that causes a narrowing of the aorta of the Heart at or near the “ductus arteriosus“.

A primary symptom or 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