Aortic coarctation overview

Aortic coarctation is a localized narrowing or abrupt constriction of the aortic arch anywhere along its length. It is most common distal to the origin of the left subclavian artery, near the area where the ductus arteriosus (ligamentum arteriosum after its regression) inserts. Less commonly, the obstruction can occur in the abdominal aorta.

There is a dilation of the aorta immediately above the narrowing, but especially just below. Therefore the latin term "coarctatus", which means contracted or tightened.