What is stent angioplasty for coarctation of the aorta?

Also known as: Balloon and stent angioplasty.

Coarctation of the aorta is a congenital heart defect that involves a narrowing of the aorta typically just below the aortic branches that provide flow to the upper body, thereby restricting the flow of blood to the lower extremities. Most often it causes high blood pressure in the upper body. When feasible, a balloon with or without stent angioplasty is a medical procedure that can help restore the flow of blood to the lower extremities.

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Reviewed by: Lourdes Rosa Prieto, MD

This page was last updated on: 1/29/2019 3:21:13 PM