aortic arch interruption
Also written as: IAA — Interrupted Aortic Arch
Congenital heart defect characterized by complete discontinuity of the aortic arch, resulting in absence of luminal connection.
Full Definition
Aortic arch interruption is a rare congenital cardiac anomaly where there is complete anatomical discontinuity of the aortic arch, resulting in no luminal connection between the ascending and descending portions of the aorta. The condition is classified into three types based on the location of interruption: Type A (distal to the left subclavian artery), Type B (between the left carotid and subclavian arteries), and Type C (between the innominate and left carotid arteries). This defect requires systemic circulation to be maintained through a patent ductus arteriosus, making it a ductal-dependent lesion that presents with severe congestive heart failure in the neonatal period when the ductus closes.
Usage
Usage note: Classified into types A, B, and C; distinguish from coarctation which involves narrowing rather than complete interruption.
In Context
- "The neonate presented with Type B aortic arch interruption requiring immediate ductal stenting and staged surgical repair." — pediatric cardiology consultation
- "Echocardiography confirmed aortic arch interruption with ductal-dependent systemic circulation and associated ventricular septal defect." — echocardiogram report