Coarctation of the Aorta

last authored:
last reviewed:

Introduction

A narrowing of the lumen below the left subclavian can be one of two types:

a preductal coarctation occurs above the ductus arteriosus, allowing blood to reach the lower body

a postductal coarctation results in obliteration of the ductus and collateral artery formation

Can be in front or behind the ductus arteriousus.

a simple case introducing clincial presentation and calling for a differential diagnosis to get students thinking.

Often associated bicuspid aortic valve.

Diagnose by lack of femoral or brachial pulses.

Radial-femoral delay

Coarctation of the aorta is an EMERGENCY. Once diagnosed, refer to a tertiary care centre immediately.

authors:

reviewers: