What is Coarctation of the Aorta?
Coarctation of the Aorta is a congenital heart defect where the aorta, the main artery that carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the body, is narrowed.
This narrowing restricts blood flow to the lower part of the body, causing the heart to pump harder to get blood through the narrow area.
Side Effects of Coarctation of the Aorta
The condition can lead to various health issues if not treated promptly. Common side effects include:
- High Blood Pressure: Blood pressure can be higher in the arms and upper body but lower in the legs and lower body.
- Heart Problems: It can strain the heart over time, leading to enlargement of the heart muscle or other complications.
- Increased Risk of Aneurysms: The narrowed aorta can cause weak spots in the artery wall, increasing the risk of aneurysms.
How is Coarctation of the Aorta Diagnosed?
Coarctation of the Aorta may be detected at birth or later in life. Diagnostic methods include:
- Physical Examination: A doctor may detect a discrepancy in blood pressure or weak pulses between the arms and legs.
- Imaging Tests: These may include echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart), CT scans, or MRI to visualize the narrowing and assess its severity.
- Cardiac Catheterization: This involves inserting a thin tube into a blood vessel to evaluate the heart and arteries.
Potential Treatment of Coarctation of the Aorta
Treatment options depend on the severity of the narrowing and may include:
- Surgical Repair: The most common treatment involves open-heart surgery to remove the narrowed part of the aorta and reconnect the two ends.
- Balloon Angioplasty: A less invasive procedure where a balloon is inserted into the narrowed area and inflated to widen it. This may be followed by stent placement to keep the artery open.
- Medication: Used to manage high blood pressure or heart failure associated with the condition.
👉 Contact us for further information and receive a complimentary consultation.
