Coarctation of the abdominal aorta: Review of the literature

Abstract A case of coarctation of the abdominal aorta is presented and the literature, consisting of thirteen cases, is reviewed. Coarctation of the abdominal aorta is a rare condition which presents certain features which differ from coarctation of the thoracic aorta. These features are: a systolic bruit heard best in the abdominal and lumbar regions, and complaints of intermittent claudication in the lower extremities. Translumbar aortography appears to be the best definitive diagnostic method. Surgical excision is complicated by the frequent close proximity of the renal arteries to the narrowed segment.