Coarctation of the Aorta
Sherly Fleurimont BSC-2086
FUNCTION OF THE AORTA
It is the body’s main artery. It distributes oxygen-rich blood to all body parts except lungs. The first branch of the aorta go to arms head. Blood goes to abdomen and legs.
Blockage can cause: Increase blood pressure in arms and head Reduce blood pressure in legs Seriously strain heart.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Usually there aren’t any symptoms, but if obstruction is severe, you may:
TREATMENT
Surgery is usually recommended
The narrowed part of the aorta will be removed.
If the problem area is small, the two free ends of the aorta may be reconnected. This procedure is called Anastomosis. If a large part of the aorta is removed, a Dacron Graft (synthetic material) is used to fill the gap.