Management of Coarctation and Aortic Arch Anomalies in the Adult

Abstract

Congenital Aortic arch malformations are rare in adults. Often they present with hypertension or tracheoesophageal compression. The involved anatomy is dependent on the sidedness of the aortic arch and the variable development of the primitive pharyngeal arches. Sternotomy and thoracotomy are usually required for surgical repair, while need for circulatory arrest is not uncommon. With caution and adequate planning, surgery can be carried out with satisfactory results.