Coarctation of the Aorta: Review of Current Literature

Coarctation of the aorta (CoA) is a cardiovascular anomaly characterized by focal narrowing of the aorta, typically occurring near the insertion of the ductus arteriosus in the descending aorta. CoA is most commonly a congenital heart defect, usually coexisting with other cardiac congenital defects, however, rarely can be acquired in high inflammatory states. Precise pathogenesis is unknown; however, it is hypothesized that CoA is due to altered intrauterine blood flow leading to underdevelopment of the aortic arch, along with involvement of excessive ductal tissue into the wall of the aorta. Clinical manifestation varies based on age of presentation but the most common finding in adult patients is early onset hypertension with decreased blood supply to the lower extremities. There is a variety of both invasive and noninvasive diagnostic modalities to confirm the presence of CoA. Management options include prompt invasive correction with balloon angioplasty, percutaneous stent placement, or surgery. Patients with CoA require long-term follow-up but generally have favorable outcomes with timely diagnosis.