Definition of Coarctation of the aorta

Coarctation of the aorta: Congenital constriction of the aorta that impedes the flow of blood below the level of the constriction and increases blood pressure above the constriction. Symptoms may not be evident at birth but may develop as soon as the first week after birth, with congestive heart failure or high blood pressure that can require early surgery. The outlook after surgery is favorable. Some cases have been treated with balloon angioplasty.