Coarctation of the aorta

Aortic coarctation is a narrowing of part of the aorta (the major artery leading the heart). It is a type of birth defect. Coarctation means narrowing.

Aortic coarctation

The aorta carries blood from the heart to the vessels that supply the body with blood and nutrients. If part of the aorta is narrowed, it is hard for blood to pass through the artery. People with this condition often have high blood pressure in the upper body and arms (or one arm) and low blood pressure in the lower body and legs.

Aortic coarctation is more common in persons with certain genetic disorders, such as Turner's syndrome. However, it can also be due to birth defects of the aortic valve, such as a bicuspid aortic valve.

Aortic coarctation occurs in approximately 1 out of 10,000 people. It is usually diagnosed in children or adults under age 40.