Aortic Coarctation - Coarctation of the Aorta

How is the condition diagnosed?

The diagnosis of coarctation of the aorta may be suspected from the medical history and physical exam. A heart tracing, called an EKG, and a chest X-ray are commonly done and may be abnormal. Imaging tests of the heart, such as a test that uses sound waves called echocardiography, can confirm the diagnosis. A chest MRI and chest CT scan can also show the defect.

An X-ray procedure called cardiac catheterization may be done in some cases. In this test, a thin tube is inserted through the skin and into an artery, usually in the groin. The tube is then advanced along the artery and up into the heart. A contrast agent can then be squirted through the tube and into the blood. X-ray pictures of the contrast agent can be taken as it flows through the heart and aorta.