Coarctation of the descending thoracic aorta diagnosed during pregnancy.

Abstract

Coarctation of the aorta is an uncommon condition complicating pregnancy. It is often associated with hypertension and usually involves the aortic isthmus. Coarctation of the descending thoracic aorta was found at 21 weeks' gestation after physical findings of hypertension, a holosystolic murmur over the entire left hemithorax, and diminished lower extremity pulses. The diagnosis led to thoracotomy and placement of a graft bypass after an otherwise uneventful pregnancy. Unusual sites of coarctation of the aorta complicating pregnancy include the descending thoracic aorta.