Results of repair of coarctation of the aorta during infancy

Risk factors for recurrence after surgical repair of coarctation of the aorta in children: a single-center experience based on 51 children

Background

Coarctation of the aorta (CoA), is a congenital malformation, often combined with several cardiac abnormalities. At present, the operation effect is satisfactory, but postoperative restenosis is still a matter. Identification of risk factors for restenosis and prompt therapy adjustments may improve patient outcomes.

Materials and methods

A retrospective clinical study of patients under 12 who had CoA repair in 2012-2021, with a randomized cohort population of 475 patients.

Results

A total of 51 patients (M/F: 30/21) with a mean age of 5.33 (2.00-15.00) months and a median weight of 5.60 (4.20-10.00) kg. The mean follow-up was 8.93 (3.77-19.37) months. Patients were divided into 2 groups: no-restenosis (n-reCoA) (G1, 38 patients) and restenosis (reCoA) (G2, 13 patients). ReCoA was defined as a restenosis requiring interventional or surgery or a pressure gradient >20 mmHg at the repair site as reported by B-ultrasound with the presence of an upper and lower limb blood pressure gradient or growing dysplasia. The overall reCoA incidence was 25% (13/51). In multivariate COX regression, smaller preoperative z-score of the ascending aorta (P = 0.009, HR = 0.68) and transverse aortic arch (P = 0.015, HR = 0.66), arm-leg systolic pressure gradient ≥12.5 mmHg at discharge (P = 0.003, HR = 1.09) were independent risk factors for reCoA.

Conclusion

The overall outcome of CoA surgery is successful. Smaller preoperative z-score of the ascending aorta and transverse aortic arch, and an arm-leg systolic pressure gradient ≥12.5 mmHg at discharge increase reCoA risk, and closer follow-up for such patients are required especially within 1 postoperative year.

Balloon Dilatation in the Management of Congenital Obstructive Lesions of the Heart: Review of Author's Experiences and Observations-Part I

Balloon dilatation techniques became available to treat congenital obstructive lesions of the heart in the early/mid-1980s. The purpose of this review is to present the author's experiences and observations on the techniques and outcomes of balloon dilatation of pulmonary stenosis (PS), aortic stenosis (AS) and aortic coarctation (AC), both native and postsurgical re-coarctations. Balloon dilatation resulted in a reduction of peak pressure gradient across the obstructive lesion at the time of the procedure as well as at short-term and long-term follow-ups. Complications such as recurrence of stenosis, valvar insufficiency (for PS and AS cases) and aneurysm formation (for AC cases) have been reported, but infrequently. It was recommended that strategies be developed to prevent the reported complications.

Factors Associated With an Abnormal Blood Pressure Response During Exercise After Coarctation Repair

BACKGROUND

Although resting blood pressures following aortic arch repair or the extended end-to-end anastomosis (EEA) repair for coarctation can be physiologic, factors associated with an abnormal blood pressure response after exercise are unknown. We measured blood pressure gradients following exercise in children who had undergone previous repair in accordance with a surgical selection algorithm and sought to identify factors associated with an abnormal blood pressure response.

METHODS

In accordance with our practice's surgical algorithm for repair of coarctation, infants were stratified to aortic arch repair when the distal transverse arch-to-left carotid artery ratio (DTA:LCA) ≤ 1.0, or when a brachiocephalic trunk or intra-cardiac lesion requiring repair was present. A thoracotomy and EEA were otherwise used. A follow-up exercise stress test (EST) measured the arm:leg blood pressure gradient after exercise, and a gradient ≥ 20 mm Hg was defined as an abnormal blood pressure response.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven infants who had previously undergone coarctation repair (aortic arch repair-19, EEA-18) completed an EST at 12.3 ± 2.2 years of age. Thirteen (35%) children (aortic arch repair-5, EEA-8; p = .3) exhibited an abnormal blood pressure response. Factors associated with an abnormal blood pressure response included: smaller DTA:LCA ratios prior to repair (1.0 ± .2 vs. 1.2 ± .3; p = .04) and greater body weight at the time of EST (57.5 ± 19.1 vs. 40.9 ± 15.6 kg; p = .03).

CONCLUSION

An abnormal blood pressure response following exercise is associated with smaller DTA:LCA ratios at the time of repair and increased weight during follow-up suggesting that patients with these factors warrant close observation.

Influence of Associated Defects and Type of Surgery in Neonatal Aortic Coarctation

We reviewed our 12-year experience of surgical treatment for aortic coarctation in 86 neonates. Twenty-three patients had simple coarctation, 38 had an associated large ventricular septal defect, and 25 had complex intracardiac defects. The surgical techniques included subclavian flap angioplasty in 54 (63%), combined resection with end-to-end anastomosis augmented by a subclavian flap in 22 (26%), resection with extended end-to-end anastomosis in 7 (8%), and patch aortoplasty in 3 (3%). Five patients required additional transverse aortic arch augmentation. Hospital mortality was 14% (12/86) and was not related to the type of repair but associated pathology increased the operative risk. Late mortality was 11% (8/74) within one year of repair. Recoarctation developed in 5 patients (7%) within one year. No recoarctation was observed in the group repaired by end-to-end anastomosis augmented by a subclavian flap (p = 0.04).

The role of aortic compliance in determination of coarctation severity: Lumped parameter modeling, in vitro study and clinical evaluation

Early detection and accurate estimation of the extent of coarctation of the aorta (COA) is critical to long-term outcome. Peak-to-peak trans-coarctation pressure gradient (PKdP) higher than 20mmHg is an indication for interventional/surgical repair. Patients with COA have reduced proximal and distal aortic compliances. A comprehensive study investigating the effects of variations of proximal COA and systemic compliances on PKdP, and consequently on the COA severity evaluation has never been done. This study evaluates the effect of aortic compliance on diagnostic accuracy of PKdP. Lumped parameter modeling and in vitro experiments were performed for COA severities of 50%, 75% and 90% by area. Modeling and in vitro results were validated against retrospective clinical data of PKdP, measured in 54 patients with COA. Modeling and in vitro. PKdP increases with reduced proximal COA compliance (+36%, +38% and +53% for COA severities of 50%, 75% and 90%, respectively; p<0.05), but decreases with reduced systemic compliance (-62%, -41% and -36% for COA severities of 50%, 75% and 90%, respectively; p<0.01). Clinical study. PKdP has a modest correlation with COA severity (R=0.29). The main determinants of PKdP are COA severity, stroke volume index and systemic compliance. Systemic compliance was found to be as influential as COA severity in PKdP determination (R=0.30 vs. R =0.34). In conclusion, PKdP is highly influenced by both stroke volume index and arterial compliance. Low values of PKdP cannot be used to exclude the severe COA presence since COA severity may be masked by reduced systemic compliance and/or low flow conditions.

Repair of coarctation of aorta with preservation of blood supply to upper limb

In this report, we present a modified technique of extended resection and end-to-end anastomosis of aorta for repair of coarctation of aorta. The advantages of this technique are a larger tension free anastomosis without compromising the blood supply into the left subclavian artery.

Comparison of angioplasty and surgery for neonatal aortic coarctation

BACKGROUND

The efficacy of balloon dilatation as primary treatment for neonatal aortic coarctation remains controversial.

METHODS

A retrospective comparison between balloon angioplasty and surgery for the treatment of neonatal aortic coarctation was undertaken on 57 neonates younger than 40 days of age (angioplasty, 23 patients; surgery, 34 patients) treated between 1994 and 2004.

RESULTS

Cohorts were similar with respect to the preinterventional variables of age, weight, upper extremity systolic blood pressure, coarctation gradient, degree of aortic arch hypoplasia, associated conditions, and mean follow-up (angioplasty, 36 months; surgery, 38 months). Among the angioplasty group, 13 patients (57%) required surgery, and 8 required a second balloon dilatation, of whom 3 patients had an aortic aneurysm. Among the surgery cohort, 6 patients experienced recurrence (18%) after either SFA (3) or XETE anastomosis repair (3). All were successfully treated with balloon angioplasty. Actuarial freedom from any intervention was significantly greater in the surgery cohort as was the degree of aortic arch growth. At latest follow-up, antihypertensive medication was required in 3 of 9 angioplasty patients (33%) and 2 of 27 surgery patients (7%). No repeat intervention was required in the 13 patients who underwent angioplasty followed by surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Primary angioplasty is palliative treatment for neonatal aortic coarctation, but it is the treatment of choice for recurrence after surgery. Surgery for neonatal aortic coarctation is associated with fewer reinterventions, improved aortic arch growth, no aortic aneurysm formation, and decreased need for antihypertensive medication when compared with neonates treated primarily with balloon angioplasty.

Arterial hypertension and cardiovascular prognosis after successful repair of aortic coarctation: a clinical model for the study of vascular function

Despite successful surgical repair, aortic coarctation is associated with unfavourable prognosis mainly due to cardiovascular disease. Late timing of repair and arterial hypertension represent adverse prognostic factors. Arterial hypertension can recur after coarctation repair, despite the absence of residual obstruction, with a prevalence of up to 45%. Furthermore, even subjects with normal blood pressure values at rest may show an abnormal blood pressure elevation during exercise and daily life activities. The pathophysiology of such abnormal blood pressure behaviour is unclear. Different mechanisms have been proposed: resetting of the renin-angiotensin system, neurological dysfunction and impaired vascular reactivity and/or elastic properties. Several studies have supported these hypotheses, although the suggestion of a causative role of vascular dysfunction persisting late after coarctation repair has recently become more popular. Further studies are needed to investigate this issue; this particular syndrome may represent an important study model for the understanding of systolic hypertension.

Is extended arch aortoplasty the operation of choice for infant aortic coarctation? Results of 15 years' experience in 181 patients

BACKGROUND

Recurrent coarctation is an ever-present complication of surgical treatment of coarctation of aorta (CoA) among infants. No single operation appears to have a clear superiority.

METHODS

From January 1, 1986, to June 30, 2002, a consecutive series of 181 patients less than 1 year of age (range 1 to 300 days, median 13.5 days) were referred for CoA repair. Neonates accounted for 135 patients, and hypoplastic arch (less than 1 mm/kg plus 1) was present in 107 infants. Coarctation of aorta was simple (group 1) in 71 patients; complicated by ventricular septal defect (group 2) in 62; and complicated by complex congenital heart disease (group 3) in 48. All patients were assessed by right arm/left leg Dynamap pressures and routine follow-up was performed by the cardiologists. Follow-up was complete in all patients (range 6 months to 16 years, median 7.5 years).

RESULTS

The overall hospital/30-day mortality was 0.5% (group 1 = 0, group 2 = 0, group 3 = 1 [2.0%]). Complications other than recoarctation occurred in 5 patients (2.7%). Late mortality occurred in 15 (11 at intracardiac repair). Recoarctation, ie, a gradient of more than 20 mm Hg, occurred in 4 patients (2.2%). All 4 patients were noted to have a gradient of more than 10 mm Hg (right arm/left leg) postoperatively and as such had residual coarctation. All 4 were successfully treated by balloon aortoplasty.

CONCLUSIONS

Extended arch aortoplasty in association with ductal and coarctation excision provides excellent coarctation repair with a low incidence of recoarctation. Recoarctation occurred only in proximal aortic arch hypoplasia or low birth weight. Balloon aortoplasty easily and effectively relieved the recoarctation in all cases.

Coarctation of the aorta

Controversy still exists in the literature regarding definitive therapy for repair of coarctation of the aorta. Major factors involve not only the timing of repair, but also the method of repair, whether surgical or by percutaneous transluminal balloon dilatation. Results and complications of coarctation repair using various methods of classification present a diversity of results. This report will focus on these issues and attempt to dispel the statement that either one method or the other is the "choice method" of repair for any and all types of coarctation. Also presented is a proposed classification we believe will assist in clarifying the choice of therapy and perhaps improve not only the reporting of results, but also the results themselves. Methods of repair are discussed to provide the surgeon with a complete armamentarium of operations that the surgeon would tailor to the individual anatomicopathological patterns of the patient who presents at the time of surgery. Copyright 2000 by W.B. Saunders Company

Repaired coarctation: a "cost-effective" approach to identify complications in adults

OBJECTIVES

The study was done to determine the most "cost-effective" approach to follow adults after repair of coarctation of the aorta.

BACKGROUND

Recoarctation and/or aneurysm formation following surgical repair or angioplasty for coarctation of the aorta carry a significant morbidity and mortality. Various screening tests to detect such complications are used, but little is known of their sensitivities and specificities; as a consequence, the most "cost-effective" approach to follow such patients is undefined.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis was done on the sensitivity and specificity of symptomatology, physical examination, electrocardiogram, chest radiograph, exercise testing and transthoracic echocardiography to detect recoarctation and/or aneurysm formation in 84 adult patients following surgical repair or angioplasty of coarctation of the aorta, using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as the gold standard test.

RESULTS

Echocardiography had the highest sensitivity in detecting recoarctation (87%) and chest radiograph the highest sensitivity in detecting aneurysm formation (67%). Combined clinical visit and echocardiography had a high sensitivity for diagnosing recoarctation and/or aneurysm formation (97%), but performing a clinical visit and an MRI on every patient without any prior screening test emerged as the most "cost-effective" strategy.

CONCLUSIONS

The most "cost-effective" approach to diagnose complications at the site of repair in patients after surgical repair or balloon angioplasty of coarctation of the aorta appears to be the combination of clinical assessment and MRI scan on every patient. If MRI resources are scant, performing a clinical assessment plus a transthoracic echocardiography and an MRI on patients with positive results is an acceptable alternative.

Recurrent aortic coarctation: is surgical repair still the gold standard?

OBJECTIVE

We reviewed our experience with surgical repair compared with balloon aortoplasty of recurrent coarctations of the aorta.

METHODS

This is a retrospective review of 1 institution's 27-year experience with surgical repair of recurrent aortic coarctation. A thorough chart review was performed of all pediatric patients undergoing surgical repair for recurrent aortic coarctation (n = 56) from January 1970 through July 1996.

RESULTS

The vast majority of recoarctations were repaired with a prosthetic patch technique, with a greater than 96% success rate. No deaths or major complications occurred in the 56 patients. Although a direct comparison with balloon aortoplasty cannot be done, we have reviewed the data available in the literature and found higher complication rates and lower success rates than we obtained in our series.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the treatment of aortic coarctation has improved significantly during the past decades, persistent hypertension after repairs at an older age and recurrent coarctation after repairs in neonates occur in all institutions. Surgeons have not agreed on the optimal approach to primary coarctation repair, and invasive cardiologists have challenged operative intervention for both recurrent and primary coarctation. This study demonstrates that surgical repair of recurrent coarctation of the aorta can be performed safely and with excellent results. We believe it is still the gold standard in the management of recurrent coarctation of the aorta.

Surgery for coarctation of the aorta in infants younger than 3 months: end-to-end repair versus subclavian flap angioplasty: is either operation better?

OBJECTIVE

Recurrent coarctation is a complication which is seen at a consistent rate following all types of repair for coarctation of the aorta. Particularly disappointing late results are reported in younger infants, under 3 months of age. This retrospective analysis was undertaken to compare the outcomes on late follow-up between subclavian flap angioplasty and resection and end-to-end repair, in this age group.

METHODS

Over a 12-year period, between 1982 and 1994, 86 infants under 3 months of age underwent surgical repair of coarctation (39 resections and end-to-end repair, and 47 subclavian flap angioplasty procedures). Operative mortality was not significantly different (P = 0.6) between resection and end-to-end repair (5.1%) and subclavian flap angioplasty (8.5%). All operative deaths (six patients) were in infants with associated ventricular septal defects. The mean follow-up for all patients was 7.95 years +/- 4.10 (range 0-14.5 years). The 5-year survival for resection and end-to-end repair was 87 +/- 5%, compared to 75 +/- 7% for subclavian flap angioplasty (P = 0.2).

RESULTS

Recurrent coarctation occurred in nine patients who needed reoperation. The reoperation-free rates at both 5 and 10 years for resection and end-to-end anastomosis, and subclavian flap repair were 86 +/- 6% and 90 +/- 5%, respectively. The recurrence in the resection and end-to-end anastomosis group were due to constrictive scarring at the anastomosis, whereas periductal tissue and growth of posterior aortic ridge caused recurrence in the subclavian flap angioplasty group. There were no deaths during reoperation for recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Both procedures are extremely effective for coarctation repair in young infants and run a similar risk of recurrence, which are due to completely different mechanisms. The surgeon's expertise is the major determinant of outcome.

Long-term follow-up results of balloon angioplasty of postoperative aortic recoarctation

Immediate- and short-term follow-up results of balloon dilatation of aortic recoarctation following surgery have been well documented, but there is sparse data on long-term follow-up. During a 10-year period ending in August 1995, 33 children, aged 2 months to 14 years old, underwent balloon angioplasty of aortic recoarctation. Prior surgery included resection and end-to-end anastomosis (n = 9), subclavian flap (n = 16) or prosthetic (Dacron or Gore-Tex) patch (n = 5) angioplasty, and repair of an interrupted aortic arch (n = 3). Recoarctation developed 1 month to 14 years (mean +/- SD 29 +/- 44 months) after surgery. The indications for angioplasty were peak-to-peak systolic gradients > 20 mm Hg and systemic hypertension and/or congestive heart failure. After balloon angioplasty, the peak-to-peak systolic pressure gradient across the coarctation decreased from 48 +/- 22 to 13 +/- 15 mm Hg (p <0.01), and the size of the coarcted segment increased from 3.3 +/- 1.4 to 6.5 +/- 2.3 mm (p <0.01). Follow-up angiography and/or magnetic resonance imaging were performed in 20 children 17 +/- 12 months after angioplasty. No aneurysms were observed and improvement in the diameter of the coarcted aortic segment (9 +/- 3 mm) persisted. One- to 10-year (median 5) clinical follow-up was available in 32 children. During follow-up, 2 children required surgery to repair a long tubular isthmic narrowing. The residual gradients, determined by arm-leg systolic blood pressure difference, were 5 +/- 8 mm Hg. No patient was symptomatic and only 1 patient (3%) was hypertensive, controlled with antihypertensive medications. We conclude that balloon angioplasty of aortic recoarctation following all types of surgical repair is feasible, safe, and effective with good long-term results. We recommend balloon angioplasty as the procedure of choice in the management of postsurgical recoarctation with hypertension and/or congestive heart failure.

Balloon angioplasty of recurrent coarctation: a 12-year review

OBJECTIVES

This study was undertaken to investigate the long-term outcome of balloon angioplasty for recurrent coarctation of the aorta in a large series of patients.

BACKGROUND

Balloon angioplasty has become the standard treatment for residual or recurrent aortic coarctation. Despite the widespread use of this treatment modality, there are few data outlining the long-term outcome of a large patient cohort.

METHODS

Clinical, echocardiographic, hemodynamic and angiographic data on 90 consecutive patients who underwent balloon angioplasty between January 1984 and January 1996 were reviewed.

RESULTS

Mean systolic pressure gradients were reduced from 31 +/- 21 to 8 +/- 9 mm Hg after dilation (p = 0.0001). The mean diameter of the stenotic site, measured in the frontal and lateral views, increased by 38% and 35%, respectively (p = 0.001). Neurologic events occurred in two patients, with one death. An aortic tear occurred in one patient, requiring surgical intervention. Optimal results were defined as a postprocedure gradient < 20 mm Hg and were obtained acutely in 88% of patients. At long-term follow-up (12 years), 53 (72%) of 74 patients with an early optimal result remained free from reintervention. Transverse arch hypoplasia, defined as an arch dimension < 2 SD below the mean for age, was the primary predictor of the need for reintervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the majority of patients undergoing percutaneous balloon angioplasty for recoarctation of the aorta will achieve long-term benefit, the need for further surgical intervention in those with transverse arch hypoplasia remains high.

Isolated aortic coarctation in neonates and infants: results of resection and end-to-end anastomosis

BACKGROUND

Operative resection is the treatment of choice for native aortic coarctation in most institutions. The ideal timing for elective repair is still a matter of debate. This study evaluated one institution's results with resection and end-to-end anastomosis in the first year of life.

METHODS

Between January 1987 and December 1993, 46 neonates and infants with functionally isolated aortic coarctation underwent operative resection and end-to-end anastomosis. For the patients included in the study, all hospital records, catheterization data, and operative protocols were evaluated for retrospective analysis. To obtain valid follow-up information, all patients were systematically seen on an outpatient basis during 1994.

RESULTS

After a mean follow-up of 49 +/- 24 months (range, 13 to 95 months), recoarctation (arm-leg blood pressure gradient > 20 mm Hg) occurred in 5 of 26 patients with neonatal operations (19%) and in 1 of 20 patients with operations in infancy (5%, p = not significant). Four of these 6 children with recoarctation needed reintervention. The other 2 patients had only mild recoarctation (gradients of 22 and 30 mm Hg, respectively) and were not treated. In all 6 patients, recoarctation was diagnosed within the first 6 months postoperatively. During the whole follow-up period, right arm systolic blood pressures slightly above the 90th percentile of normal developed in 11 of the patients (24%) (7 in the group with neonatal operation and 4 after operation in infancy; p = not significant).

CONCLUSIONS

Resection with end-to-end anastomosis was shown to be an adequate therapeutic strategy for isolated aortic coarctation in neonates and infants. The results indicate that already beyond the neonatal age, there is a relatively low incidence of recoarctation.

Coarctation of the aorta. Repair with polytetrafluoroethylene patch aortoplasty

BACKGROUND

The first successful surgical repair of coarctation of the aorta (CoAo) was performed in 1944, but during the years that followed a high incidence of recoarctation was seen, ranging from 20% to 86%. In response to that problem, the patch aortoplasty was introduced in 1957; however, true aneurysms were found in the aortic wall opposite the patch after Dacron patch aortoplasty, particularly when the coarctation ridge was excised. The purpose of our review was to evaluate the results of patch aortoplasty for CoAo using a relatively new material, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and an operative technique that does not involve resection of the coarctation ridge.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Between 1979 and 1993, 125 infants and children underwent PTFE patch aortoplasty for CoAo; 111 of the procedures were primary repairs, and 14 were reoperations. Diagnoses were isolated CoAo (96 patients), CoAo and ventricular septal defect (15 patients), and CoAo with complex intracardiac anomaly (14 patients). Patient age at the time of repair ranged from 4 days to 17 years (mean age, 5.1 +/- 4.5 years). There were no instances of intraoperative mortality or paraplegia. There were 4 deaths from 10 to 40 days postoperatively, all in neonates (mean age, 33 days) who received additional intracardiac procedures for complex associated anomalies. Follow-up has ranged from 6 months to 12.5 years (mean, 4.5 +/- 3.2 years). All children had postoperative chest roentgenograms, 80 (66%) patients have had a postoperative echocardiogram and 16 (13%) a cardiac catheterization. One patient had successful repair of a false aneurysm 4 months postoperatively. No patient has developed a late true aneurysm. Of the patients < 1 month of age at the time of CoAo repair (12 patients), 6 patients had recurrent CoAo (gradient > 20 mm Hg) compared with only 4 recurrences in 97 patients > 1 month of age at the time of repair (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

For children > 1 year of age, PTFE patch aortoplasty remains our procedure of choice for CoAo repair because of the low mortality rate, low recoarctation rate, and absence of late true aneurysms. We have stopped using this technique for infants < 1 month of age because of the high recurrence rate.

Balloon angioplasty for postoperative recurrent coarctation of the aorta

Surgical repair for recurrent or residual postoperative coarctation of the aorta is associated with some morbidity, mortality, and an incidence of recurrent coarctation that may be as high as 20%. Balloon angioplasty for recurrent or residual postoperative coarctation has become the standard treatment of choice for this condition. In this article, we review the protocol we use, and the acute and long-term results of this procedure. Since 1983, over 400 patients have undergone balloon angioplasty for recurrent coarctation with excellent immediate relief of the gradient and improvement in the diameter. On long-term follow-up, the majority of these patients enjoyed a lasting beneficial effect of the balloon angioplasty. We discuss the future use of stents for selected patients who are not amenable or failed balloon angioplasty of recurrent or residual postoperative coarctation.

A postoperative follow-up study of infantile coarctation of the aorta

Follow-up investigations were performed in 16 patients operated on for coarctation during infancy. The follow-up period ranged from 4.5 to 11 years (median 5.5 years). Four different surgical techniques were used: resection with end-to-end anastomosis (REE) (4 patients), subclavian flap aortoplasty (SFA) (10 patients), patch aortoplasty (1 patient) and resection and SFA (1 patient). One patient developed recoarctation (6%). She had been operated on by REE at 7 days of age. The other three patients operated on by REE had equal pulses in the arms and legs; none had hypertension and all had normal arm/leg pressure gradients at rest. Seven (58%) of the 12 patients operated on by SFA or aortoplasty had weak radial pulses in the left arm but no limitation of left arm function. The left a rm showed a normal bone age but was smaller and shorter than the right arm in 9 (81%) of the patients. None of the patients operated on by SFA had hypertension and the arm/leg gradient at rest was normal.

Ambulatory blood pressure in patients with occult recurrent coarctation of the aorta

The hypothesis that mild recurrent aortic obstruction produces subtle changes in ambulatory blood pressure was investigated by performing 24-hour monitoring on 11 postoperative coarctation patients. Patients (age 16.1 +/- 2.7 years) were compared with normal controls (age 15.7 +/- 2.5 years, n = 15). Surgery (end-to-end anastomosis) was performed at 6.0 +/- 1.0 years of age. There were no significant differences between patients and controls in terms of baseline blood pressure (right arm 123/78 +/- 4/3 mmHg versus 120/75 +/- 3/2 mmHg) or right leg systolic pressure (125 +/- 6 mmHg versus 123 +/- 4 mmHg). Of the 11 patients 8 had recoarctation by Doppler study (mean gradient 25.3 +/- 2.1 mmHg), 5 of 11 had a postexercise arm-leg pressure difference of > 30 mmHg, and 6 patients had aortic diameters at the site of surgery < 70% of the descending aortic diameter (by magnetic resonance imaging). There were no significant differences between the coarctation and control groups in terms of mean ambulatory systolic (125 +/- 3 mmHg versus 119 +/- 2 mmHg) or diastolic (69 +/- 2 mmHg versus 72 +/- 2 mmHg) pressures throughout the day. However, coarctation patients had a larger number of systolic pressures that exceeded the 95th percentile (18.2 +/- 5.6% versus 6.8 +/- 1.2%). These labile increases in systolic pressure correlated with residual coarctation (r = 0.642, p = 0.003). Ambulatory monitoring is a useful tool for detecting and monitoring subtle abnormalities of blood pressure control after coarctation repair.

Repair of coarctation of the aorta in neonates and infants: a thirty-year experience

Between January 1962 and December 1991, 179 children less than 1 year of age underwent repair of coarctation of the aorta. Group I (1962 to 1971) consisted of 19 patients, group II (1972 to 1981) of 57 patients, group III (1982 to 1991) of 103 patients. Neonates (< 30 days old) made up 60% of group I, 57% of group II, and 70% of group III. The proportion of infants with associated complex cardiac abnormalities was 7% in group I, 25% in group II, and 39% in group III. Techniques of repair included resection with end-to-end anastomosis (n = 65), subclavian flap repair (n = 85), patch aortoplasty (n = 18), and other procedures (n = 11). The early mortality (< 30 days) was lowest in group III (group I, 21%; group II, 21%; and group III, 7%; p < 0.05), but the late mortality was similar in all groups (group I, 11%; group II, 13%; and group III, 15%). The overall actuarial survival was 57.7% +/- 0.15% at 27.1 years in group I, 65.7% +/- 0.07% at 19.7 years in group II, and 77.5% +/- 0.04% at 9.3 years in group III (p = not significant). Twenty-five restenoses requiring intervention occurred in 23 patients, for an overall restenosis rate of 16.4%. The incidence of restenosis was 23% for the patients who underwent end-to-end anastomosis, 11% for those who underwent subclavian flap repair (p < 0.1), and 27% for those who underwent patch aortoplasty (p < 0.01). Balloon angioplasty was successful in relieving 11 of the 12 restenoses in groups II and III.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Operative risk factors and durability of repair of coarctation of the aorta in the neonate

The risk factors for the operative mortality and long-term durability of repair after surgical correction of coarctation of the aorta in neonates remain controversial. Between January 1970 and January 1993, 139 patients under 1 month of age underwent repair of coarctation of the aorta. Complex intracardiac defects were present in 59 patients. Another 44 patients had an associated ventricular septal defect. Subclavian artery flap repair was performed in 92 patients; end-to-end anastomosis (38 patients) and patch angioplasty (9 patients) were performed less commonly. The hospital mortality was significantly higher in patients with complex intracardiac defects (9 of 59 patients; 15.2%) than in those with a ventricular septal defect (1 of 44 patients; 2.3%) or with isolated coarctation (none of 36 patients; p = 0.007). Elevated pulmonary artery diastolic pressure (p = 0.041) and complex intracardiac anomalies (p = 0.048) were found to be independent predictors of hospital mortality. The presence of a complex cardiac defect (p < 0.001) was an independent predictor of poor long-term survival. Recurrent stenosis requiring reoperation had occurred or balloon dilation had been necessary in 27.9% of the children at 5 years postoperatively. In patients followed up for at least 5 years, the recurrence-free survival was better in those who had undergone subclavian artery flap repair than in those who had undergone end-to-end repair (p = 0.017). When coarctation of the aorta must be repaired in the neonate, operative mortality and long-term survival are affected by the complexity of associated intracardiac anomalies.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Coarctation of the aorta in infants: does the aortic arch grow after repair?

Infants with coarctation of the aorta frequently require a corrective operation during the first year of life. These patients frequently have a smaller than normal transverse aortic arch. Despite good repairs with different techniques, the proximal transverse aortic arch often remains smaller than normal. The hemodynamic molding theory predicts that growth of the aortic arch should occur when normal flow is established through the aortic arch. Preoperative and postoperative aortograms were reviewed in patients who underwent subclavian flap aortoplasty for the repair of coarctation. Patients were divided into two groups. Subclavian flap aortoplasty was performed at 1 month of age or earlier in group I, and at more than 1 month but less than 1 year of age in group II. Aortograms performed in patients without coarctation were used as age-matched controls (group III). The transverse aortic arch in groups I and II did grow and were compared with the control group. Group I patients achieved more growth than those in group II. No aortic arch gradients were present at postoperative follow-up.

Surgical management of the infant with coarctation of the aorta and ventricular septal defect

Clinical and cardiac catheterization data were collected from 39 infants with coarctation of the aorta and ventricular septal defect, 31 of whom were initially managed only by surgical repair of coarctation. Data were analyzed to determine mortality, morbidity, outcome and factors that might predict survival or the need for septal defect closure. Of the eight patients who did not require surgical treatment before 3 months of age, seven underwent coarctation repair alone at a mean age of 2.3 years. Of the 23 infants managed with coarctation repair alone, before age 3 months, 9 needed no additional surgical treatment and 6 required early and 8 required late repair of the ventricular septal defect. Seven infants underwent coarctation repair and simultaneous pulmonary artery banding and one eventually required debanding after spontaneous closure of the septal defect. The overall mortality rate in this series was 10.3% (mean follow-up time 5.7 years). Of 39 infants, 16 (41%) never required a second operation for ventricular septal defect closure. For patients who had only coarctation or coarctation repair with pulmonary artery banding at less than 3 months of age, ventricular septal defect size was categorized as small (less than 0.5 cm/m2), moderate (less than 1 cm/m2) or large (greater than 1 cm/m2) on the basis of defect size at operative repair or echocardiographic or angiographic assessment. Defect size did not necessarily correlate with the need for operative repair.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Coarctation repair in neonates with subclavian-sparing advancement flap

A modification of the technique of using the subclavian-sparing advancement flap for severe coarctation of the aorta was successfully used in 7 neonates ranging in age from 3 to 30 days (mean age, 12 days). Four of the 7 patients had associated cardiac defects with congestive heart failure. The procedure was performed through a left thoracotomy incision, and the coarctation repair was performed by advancing the origin of the left subclavian artery as a flap while preserving flow to the left arm. No deaths occurred, and there was patency of the repair in all patients at follow-up ranging from 1 1/2 to 2 1/4 years (mean, 2 years). In 7 of the 8 patients there was no clinically significant gradient either by examination or Doppler echocardiography at follow-up. One patient underwent balloon angioplasty at the time of catheterization to evaluate other cardiac defects 1 year postoperatively, at which time he was noted to have a peak systolic gradient of 30 mm Hg across the repair site. The technique of subclavian-sparing advancement is a reasonable addition to the surgical armamentarium for coarctation repair in neonates. It provides the advantages of subclavian flap aortoplasty without sacrificing the blood supply to the left arm. Because of the unique anatomic variations associated with coarctation of the aorta, we suggest that the choice of repair be individualized for patients with this condition.

Role of extended aortoplasty related to the definition of coarctation of the aorta

One hundred thirty-nine patients underwent operation for coarctation of the aorta. Age ranged from 1 day to 21 years and weight, from 1.5 to 70.4 kg. Numerous methods of repair were used. The operative mortality was low (1.3%), and 17 patients (11.3%) died late. Recoarctation occurred in 13 patients (9.4%). We attempted to correlate mortality and recoarctation with the surgical procedure. A review of the literature revealed no classifications of coarctation that applied to the anatomical and pathological variations we found at the time of operation. Therefore, we devised a surgical classification to separate the various entities in the spectrum of coarctation: type I = primary coarctation; type II = coarctation with isthmus hypoplasia; and type III = coarctation with tubular hypoplasia involving the isthmus and segment between the left carotid and left subclavian arteries. Each of these types has subtypes: A = with ventricular septal defect and B = with other major cardiac defects. We believe that rather than labeling one procedure as "the procedure of choice," providing this classification will allow the surgeon to use a method of repair that is suited to the anatomical variation.

Surgical correction of coarctation in early infancy: does surgical technique influence the result?

Between 1979 and 1988, a total of 53 infants less than 1 year of age underwent repair of coarctation. Thirty-seven patients (70%) were younger than 3 months. Median age was 0.9 month. Four different surgical techniques were used: resection with end-to-end anastomosis, patch enlargement, subclavian flap aortoplasty, and subclavian displacement aortoplasty (Meier-Mendonca technique). Hospital mortality was 7.5% and was limited to patients with additional complex intracardiac defects. Neither age nor surgical technique had an influence on the operative risk. Follow-up averaged 15 to 43 months for the four different groups. Restenosis developed in 9 (19%) of 47 patients regularly followed up, 5 (11%) of whom have had reoperation. Age at operation was not a predictor for restenosis, which occurred in 17.4% of patients less than 1 month and 20.8% of those greater than 1 month of age at operation. Patch enlargement and the subclavian displacement technique demonstrated the highest restenosis rates (42% and 43%, respectively). However, patients who underwent patch enlargement had less favorable pathological conditions. It is concluded that results of coarctation repair in early infancy do not depend as much on the operative method itself as on the specific pathological aspect, which largely determines the method of treatment. Some reservation must be made in regard to the subclavian displacement technique.

Balloon angioplasty for recurrent coarctation of aorta. Immediate and long-term results

BACKGROUND

As angioplasty techniques have been refined and larger low-profile balloons developed, a nonsurgical approach to recoarctation has become available. Several reports have documented both the efficacy and safety of this procedure. However, there are little data available on the long-term follow-up of these patients. This report details the initial results and long-term evaluation of both the relief of obstruction and the presence of hypertension after balloon angioplasty for recurrent coarctation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Balloon angioplasty for recurrent coarctation of the aorta was performed 29 times in 26 patients at a median age of 4 years and 9 months (range, 4 months to 29 years), with eight patients less than 1 year old. Initial surgical techniques were end-to-end anastomosis in 11 patients, subclavian flap aortoplasty in 11 patients, and patch aortoplasty in four patients. Angioplasty was performed at a median interval of 2 years and 7 months (range, 4 months to 23 years) after surgery. Mean peak systolic pressure difference across the coarctation decreased from 40.0 +/- 16.8 to 10.3 +/- 9.5 mm Hg (p less than 0.05) after the initial angioplasty, and mean diameter of the aortic lumen at the coarctation site increased from 5.8 +/- 3.5 to 9.0 +/- 4.3 mm (p less than 0.05). There was no mortality, and only one patient developed an aneurysm (4%). Three patients underwent repeat angioplasty for a pressure difference of more than 20 mm Hg. Long-term follow-up is available on 24 of 26 patients with a mean follow-up of 42 +/- 24 months (range, 12-88 months). Mean peak systolic pressure difference across the area of coarctation decreased from 40.3 +/- 17.4 before angioplasty to 8.5 +/- 8.3 mm Hg after final angioplasty (p less than 0.05) and 7.5 +/- 7.5 mm Hg at follow-up. Mean peak systolic blood pressure in the upper extremities decreased from 133.1 +/- 14.9 before angioplasty to 111.1 +/- 14.1 mm Hg at long-term follow-up (p less than 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Balloon angioplasty should be considered the treatment of choice for relief of recurrent aortic coarctation.

Coarctation: do we need to resect ductal tissue?

A review of the literature as well as a retrospective review of 100 neonates undergoing operation for coarctation at Children's Hospital in Boston between 1972 and 1984 has not established clear superiority for either resection and end-to-end anastomosis or subclavian flap aortoplasty with respect to risk of recurrent coarctation. However, there is histological evidence that the juxtaductal coarctation shelf is composed of smooth muscle of ductal origin, which subsequently fibroses. This abnormal tissue may be at risk for late aneurysm development, particularly if balloon dilatation angioplasty is required. The fact that this abnormal tissue is not removed by the subclavian flap procedure is one of the inherent disadvantages of that procedure. Other disadvantages include the need to sacrifice the left subclavian artery and the fact that, unlike resection and end-to-end anastomosis, the subclavian flap procedure does not lend itself to augmentation of the hypoplastic distal aortic arch. Furthermore, occasionally a secondary coarctation membrane is present within the distal aortic arch, and though it is readily detected during the resection procedure, it can be missed with the subclavian flap procedure. Based on these considerations rather than on a demonstrated superiority of either procedure, my colleagues and I currently prefer resection and end-to-end anastomosis over subclavian flap aortoplasty.

Follow-up results of balloon angioplasty of native coarctation in neonates and infants

The purpose of this study is to present intermediate-term results of balloon angioplasty of native aortic coarctation in neonates and infants less than 1 year of age. During a 60-month-period that ended in January 1990, 19 infants ages 3 days to 12 months (median, 2.5 months), underwent balloon angioplasty of native coarctation with resultant reduction in peak-to-peak systolic pressure gradient from 39 +/- 12 mm Hg (mean +/- SD) to 11 +/- 7 mm Hg (p less than 0.001) and increase in coarctation segment size from 2.2 +/- 0.8 mm to 4.7 +/- 1.0 mm. None required immediate surgical intervention. Thirteen of the 19 (68%) had severe associated cardiac defects. There was one death (5%) 2 days after balloon angioplasty, and it was related to associated cardiac defect. One infant was lost to follow-up. It is too soon to restudy one infant. The remaining 16 infants had clinical (36 +/- 18 months) and catheterization (12 +/- 4 months) follow-up data. The residual coarctation gradient (22 +/- 15 mm Hg) and coarcted segment size (4.4 +/- 1.6 mm) remain improved (p less than 0.01) when compared with pre-balloon angioplasty values. Five of the 16 (31%) infants (four were neonates at the time of balloon angioplasty) had evidence for recoarctation (defined as gradient greater than 20 mm Hg) and underwent surgical resection (two) or repeat balloon angioplasty (three), all with success. None developed aneurysms.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

It is valid to dilate native aortic coarctation with a balloon catheter

We report our experience in 37 patients with aortic coarctation who underwent balloon aortoplasty. Of the 37, the lesion was native in 34 cases. Clinical re-evaluation was possible in 22 patients, with a mean follow-up period of 13 months and, of these, 21 patients were asymptomatic. Haemodynamic and angiographic studies were performed in 13 patients, with a mean period of follow-up of 12 months, showing excellent results in 11 patients. Aneurysmal formation had occurred in one and recoarctation in the other patient. Our experience has proved that balloon aortoplasty is an effective method for treating patients with aortic coarctation. Adequate selection in terms of the morphology of the coarctation and the size of the balloon catheter are crucial factors in the success of the procedure.

Detrimental sequelae on the hemodynamics of the upper left limb after subclavian flap angioplasty in infancy

The long-term effect of two surgical techniques for repair of coarctation of the aorta in infancy, namely, resection and end-to-end anastomosis (RETE) and subclavian flap angioplasty (SFA) on the blood supply of the upper left limb, was quantified by Doppler spectrum analysis of blood flow velocities in the left brachial artery at rest and during postocclusive reactive hyperemia. Twenty-three patients participated in this study: nine patients after SFA (median age, 8 years), 14 patients after RETE (median age, 8 years), and 10 control subjects (median age, 9.5 years). At rest, a highly significant decrease of blood flow velocities in the left brachial artery was measured in all patients of the SFA group compared with those of the RETE and control groups, as documented by various Doppler spectrum parameters: maximal frequency of advancing curve (p = 0.0001), pulsatility index (p = 0.0005), and resistance index (p = 0.039). During reactive hyperemia, a moderate capacity of physiologic augmentation of blood flow velocities was observed in five patients of the SFA group. This capacity was marginal in two patients with complaints of claudication in the left upper limb during strenuous exercise, which can be related to the number of branches of the left subclavian artery ligated during operation. This study indicates that SFA in infancy may lead to compromised hemodynamics of the upper left limb with potential for symptoms of ischemia during exercise.

Balloon dilation catheters

Catheter therapy has gained an important role in the treatment of congenital heart disease. The cumulative experience with vascular and valvular balloon dilations has demonstrated low mortality and morbidity with short-term results similar to surgery. Currently, balloon dilation is an accepted treatment for valvular pulmonary stenosis, distal pulmonary artery stenosis, recurrent coarctation, rheumatic mitral stenosis, congenital valvular aortic stenosis, and intra-atrial baffle obstruction. Except for patients at high surgical risk, balloon dilation of native coarctation is considered investigational at most institutions but accepted at others. No conclusive evaluation is yet possible for dilation of bioprosthetic valves and membranous subaortic stenosis. Individual pulmonary veins appear undilatable. Various devices are available for closure of extra- and intracardiac communications. Transcatheter closure of aortopulmonary collaterals and arteriovenous malformations is now well established at some centers. In selected patients, therapeutic embolization of surgical shunts can replace surgery. Transcatheter closure of the patent ductus arteriosus has become routine at some centers. Nonsurgical closure of atrial and ventricular septal defects has entered clinical trials, and preliminary results appear very promising. Blade atrioseptostomy and foreign body retrieval are well established. Improvement of existing procedures and implementation of new concepts will consolidate the role of catheter therapy in congenital and acquired heart disease.

Recurrence of aortic coarctation following repair by re-implantation of the subclavian artery

Four patients mean age six months, range 11 days to 2 years, underwent repair of aortic coarctation by the technique of reimplantation of the subclavian artery (Mendonca repair). All developed re-coarctation within six months of an initially successful repair.

Coarctation of the aorta in infants: which operation?

In this series, 178 infants (age, less than or equal to 3 months old) underwent repair of aortic coarctation. Pure coarctation was present in 63 patients (Group 1), 47 infants had additional ventricular septal defects (Group 2), and 68 patients had associated complex heart disease (Group 3). Subclavian flap angioplasty was used in 26 patients, limited resection and end-to-end anastomosis in 45 patients, extended resection and end-to-end anastomosis in 99 patients, and miscellaneous procedures in 8 infants. The early mortality was 8% for the first group, 11% for the second group, and 37% for the third group (p less than 0.001). Mean follow-up was 32 months and included 97% of patients. Actuarial survival at five years was 90% for the first group, 84% for the second group, and 40% for the third group. Recoarctation occurred in 15 operative survivors (11%); 7 necessitated reoperation. Freedom from recoarctation at five years was 89% after subclavian flap angioplasty, 81% after end-to-end anastomosis, and 86% following extended resection and end-to-end anastomosis. Early mortality and late results were not influenced by the type of coarctation repair but were determined by the clinical status and the presence of associated major cardiac anomalies. These results suggest that the surgical procedure should be individualized for each infant to optimize the aortic anatomy.

Management of recurrent coarctation of the aorta: a new experimental technique

A new technique is described for the management of recurrent coarctation of the aorta. It involves enlarging the narrowed segment by an onlay patch sutured to the adventitia and outer media of the aortic wall. The procedure was used in 6 mongrel dogs with preexisting surgically created coarctation. Aortic cross-clamping time ranged between 7.5 and 11 minutes (mean, 8.8 +/- 1.3 minutes). There were no operative deaths or complications. Gross and microscopic examination of the aorta 6 to 12 months (mean, 9 +/- 2.2 months) postoperatively revealed a 290 to 380% (mean, 350 +/- 30%) increase in the diameter of the repaired area and no evidence of thrombosis or pseudoaneurysm formation. The need for minimal dissection and the brief period of aortic cross-clamping make this approach an attractive alternative in the surgical treatment of patients with difficult cases of recoarctation.

Surgical treatment of isolated coarctation of the aorta: 18 years' experience

From March 1967 to February 1985 91 patients aged from 11 months to 53 years underwent surgical treatment of isolated coarctation of the aorta. The surgical procedures in descending order of frequency, were: resection with end to end anastomosis, resection with replacement by a tube graft, patch aortoplasty, and bypass graft. Resection with end to end anastomosis was achieved mainly in younger patients. The number of patients needing other procedures increased with advancing age. Eighty six patients have been followed up (mean 10 years). There were no hospital or late deaths and none of the patients suffered from spinal cord injury. There were three recurrences of the coarctation, all in patients who had had primary reconstruction below the age of one year. The patients were divided into three groups by age: group 1, 0-5 years; group 2, 6-15 years; and group 3, over 15 years. It was found that there was no late hypertension in group 1 while hypertension persisted in 7% of group 2 and in 28% of group 3. Fifty per cent of the patients with persistent hypertension were above the age of 20 years at the time of operation and had resection with replacement by a tube graft. It is recommended that elective surgery for coarctation of the aorta should be performed at the age of 3-5 years to avoid both recurrence of stenosis and persistent hypertension.

Coarctation of the aorta: anastomotic enlargement with subclavian artery: two new surgical options

Recoarctation is still observed following surgical treatment of coarctation in small infants. Modifications to conventional surgical techniques are suggested to avoid this serious complication. Coarctectomy is performed. To obtain a much wider noncircumferential anastomosis, the subclavian artery is used to enlarge it either as a flap or by reimplantation. No residual pathological tissue is left behind, and this should help prevent recurrence.

Correlates of resting and maximal exercise systolic blood pressure after repair of coarctation of the aorta: a multivariable analysis

Repair of coarctation of the aorta may not prevent the subsequent development of elevated systemic blood pressure at rest or with exercise. The correlates of late postoperative resting systolic blood pressure and maximal exercise systolic blood pressure levels were investigated in a retrospective study of 42 patients who had graded exercise tests after correction of coarctation of the aorta. The independent variables studied included height, weight, body surface area, age at surgery, age at exercise testing, the time interval between surgery and exercise testing, the highest systolic blood pressure prior to surgery, gradient across the coarctation at preoperative catheterization, and the residual postoperative gradient across the coarctation. The same combination of independent variables provided the best regression model for explanation of the variance of both postoperative resting and maximal exercise systolic blood pressure. The models included height, highest preoperative systolic blood pressure, and residual gradient. None of the other variables added significant explanatory ability to either model. These findings suggest that the preoperative level of systolic blood pressure may be the best determinant of timing the corrective surgery. It may be possible to defer the operation, as long as blood pressure remains normal, until an age when repair is less likely to result in recurrent coarctation.

Repair of aortic coarctation in the first three months of life: immediate and long-term results

The optimum surgical procedure for treatment of coarctation of the aorta in the neonatal period remains controversial. To assess immediate and long-term results of using primarily the subclavian flap angioplasty procedure (SFA), we reviewed our initial 5-year experience. The average follow-up was 6 years. From 1977 to 1981, 25 infants under 3 months of age (1 to 86 days, mean 21) required emergency surgery for repair of coarctation of the aorta. Three groups of patients were identified. Group I consisted of 10 patients with or without patent ductus arteriosus. In group II, 10 patients had coarctation association with one or multiple ventricular septal defects (VSDs) without other congenital defects. In group III, 5 patients had coarctation associated with more complex congenital heart lesions. Twenty-three SFAs and two patch aortoplasties were performed. No patient with isolated VSD was banded. All patients except one in group III with an associated atrioventricular canal survived initial hospitalizations. Four late deaths occurred, all in patients with associated complex heart defects. There were three recurrent coarctations requiring surgery or balloon angioplasty (12%)--one in each group, with a total rate of 0.77 recurrences per 100 patient-months. SFA for coarctation in the neonatal period is a safe and effective operation with a low initial mortality (4%, 0-19%, 70% confidence limits) well tolerated in this group of ill patients. Long-term outcome is primarily related to the presence of associated complex congenital defects. Infants with VSD associated with coarctation did not require pulmonary artery banding unless primary intracardiac repair was not feasible.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)