Interrupted Aortic Arch

Handout on Aortic Arch Interruption

Part of the Aorta is absent and this leads to severe obstruction to blood flow to the lower part of the body.

In the immediate newborn period blood flows through the 'Ductus' into the Descending Aorta and hence reaches the lower part of the circulation.

As the ductus closes after birth blood pressure in the lower circulation becomes inadequate and severe symptoms develop.

Most affected infants develop severe symptoms (difficulty breathing and impaired kidney function) in the first week of life and need urgent surgery

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Disclaimer
The facts and opinions shown on this website are as accurate and up to date as we can make them, but are provided as general "information resources", which may not be relevant to individual patients. They are not a substitute for individual assessment and advice from a doctor who is familiar with the particular patient

Last Updated 05-May-2008. Authorised by: Jim Wilkinson. Enquiries: Adam Leadoux.