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[Isthmic coarctation of the aorta. Description of an anomalous case]

F Mascoli1, G Anania, T Virgili

  • 1Istituto di Clinica Chirurgica Generale e Terapia Chirurgica, Università degli Studi di Ferrara.

Insights

A rare case of adult-onset aortic coarctation presented with persistent hypertension and fainting spells. Surgical repair successfully resolved both the aortic narrowing and associated symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Vascular Surgery
  • Medical Case Reports

Background:

  • Coarctation of the aorta is a congenital narrowing of the aorta.
  • Isthmic coarctation typically presents in childhood or adolescence.
  • Late-onset presentations are uncommon, particularly in the preductal region.

Observation:

  • A patient presented with late-onset isthmic coarctation of the aorta at a preductal site.
  • Symptoms included persistent hypertension, headaches, and fainting spells (lipothymic attacks).
  • Instrumental examinations confirmed the clinical diagnosis of aortic coarctation.

Findings:

  • The patient underwent successful resective-reconstructive surgery for the aortic coarctation.
  • Post-operative assessment indicated complete resolution of the aortic narrowing.
  • The hypertensive symptomatology and associated attacks were fully resolved after surgery.

Implications:

  • This case highlights that coarctation of the aorta can manifest in adulthood.
  • Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for managing late-onset aortic coarctation.
  • Surgical repair offers a definitive solution for both the vascular defect and its clinical sequelae.

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