Coarctation

Coarctation (pronounced: koh-ark-TAY-shun) is a medical term that refers to a narrowing of a part of the body, most commonly used to describe a condition known as Coarctation of the Aorta (CoA).

Etymology

The term "coarctation" comes from the Latin coarctare, meaning "to press together" or "to constrict".

Definition

Coarctation is a condition where a part or a section of the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body, is narrower than usual. This can cause high blood pressure before the point of coarctation, and lower blood pressure beyond that point.

Symptoms

Symptoms of coarctation can vary depending on the severity of the condition. They may include high blood pressure, shortness of breath, chest pain, and in severe cases, heart failure.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of coarctation typically involves imaging tests such as an echocardiogram, MRI, or CT scan. A cardiac catheterization may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition.

Treatment

Treatment for coarctation may involve surgery to widen the narrowed section of the aorta, or the placement of a stent to keep the artery open. Medication may also be prescribed to manage symptoms such as high blood pressure.

Related Terms

• Aorta
• Echocardiogram
• MRI
• CT scan
• Cardiac catheterization
• Stent
• High blood pressure
• Heart failure

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Coarctation
• Wikipedia's article - Coarctation

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