coarctation of aorta
Pronunciation: /koʊˌɑːrkˈteɪʃən/
Also written as: CoA
A congenital narrowing of the aorta, typically occurring near the ligamentum arteriosum, causing upper body hypertension and reduced lower extremity perfusion.
Full Definition
Coarctation of the aorta is a congenital cardiovascular malformation characterized by localized narrowing of the aortic arch, most commonly occurring just distal to the left subclavian artery near the ligamentum arteriosum. The condition results in pressure gradient across the narrowed segment, leading to upper body hypertension, left ventricular hypertrophy, and development of collateral circulation through intercostal and internal mammary arteries. In pediatric radiology, diagnosis involves echocardiography, CT angiography, or MR angiography to assess the degree and location of narrowing. Chest radiographs may show rib notching in older children due to enlarged intercostal arteries. The condition may be isolated or associated with other cardiac abnormalities such as bicuspid aortic valve, mitral valve abnormalities, or complex congenital heart disease.
Usage
Usage note: Specify location (preductal vs postductal) when known for surgical planning.
In Context
- "Coarctation of aorta was diagnosed on echocardiography with a peak gradient of 45 mmHg." — Neonatal cardiac evaluation
- "CT angiography confirmed severe coarctation of aorta requiring surgical intervention." — Pre-operative cardiac imaging