Coarctation of the Aorta

Excerpt

Coarctation of the aorta is a congenital cardiovascular anomaly characterized by a narrowing of the aortic lumen, typically located just distal to the origin of the left subclavian artery at the site of the ductus arteriosus (see Image. Coarctation of the Aorta). This condition results in a significant obstruction in blood flow, leading to increased pressure proximal to the constriction and reduced distal perfusion. Coarctation of the aorta presents with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from asymptomatic hypertension to life-threatening heart failure in infancy.

Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial, as untreated coarctation can lead to serious complications, including hypertension, left ventricular hypertrophy, aortic dissection, and intracranial hemorrhage by the third or fourth decade of life. Various pathophysiologic mechanisms contribute to this persistent blood pressure issue, necessitating specific lifelong management strategies to optimize patient care. Advances in imaging modalities and surgical techniques have significantly improved the prognosis for individuals with coarctation, making it a focal point of ongoing research and clinical practice. This activity provides a comprehensive overview of the etiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic approaches, and current therapeutic options for aortic coarctation, focusing on optimizing patient outcomes through multidisciplinary care.