Coarctation of the aorta

A congenital constriction of the aorta, impeding the flow of blood below the level of the constriction and increasing blood pressure above the constriction.

Symptoms may not be evident at birth but may develop as soon as the first week after birth with congestive heart failure or high blood pressure that call for early surgery.

The surgery otherwise can be delayed.

The outlook after surgery is favorable.

Some cases have been treated by balloon angioplasty.

The word 'coarctation' comes from the Latin 'coartare' meaning :to press together.' The sides of the aorta at the point of a coarctation appear pressed together.