Abstract 18264: High Prevalence of Arterial Hypertension in Adults With Repaired Coarctation of the Aorta

Abstract

Aim: Arterial hypertension is a long-term complication in adults with coarctation of the aorta (CoA) and may potentially affect prognosis. Here we have investigated the prevalence of hypertension, analysed associated factors, and evaluated blood pressure at the latest clinical visit. Methods: The national registry of congenital heart disease was searched for adults with previous surgery for CoA. The diagnosis of hypertension was defined as either registry diagnosis of hypertension and/or medical treatment consistent with this diagnosis. Results: 527 adult patients with CoA (mean age 38.5±14.5 years) and previous surgery were identified of whom 39.5 % had arterial hypertension. The prevalence of arterial hypertension increased with age and was more common among men (44.1 % vs. 32.0 %, p=0.006). Age, body mass index and peak systolic velocity in the descending aorta were independently associated with hypertension (Nagelkerke R2=0.222, p<0.001). At the latest clinical visit, blood pressure was over 140/90 - a usually referred target value for treatment - in 53.0 % patients with the diagnosis of hypertension. Among these, men were more likely than women to have blood pressure over 140/90. Conclusion: Arterial hypertension is common in CoA and increases with age. In this registry study, blood pressure was above recommended levels in approximately half of the patients with CoA and hypertension, and more commonly among men.