Coarctation of the abdominal aorta in pregnancy

Coarctation of the aorta is a congenital vascular defect identified in approximately one in 2,000-3,000 women and only 2% of these cases involve the abdominal aorta. Mortality approaches 4% and deaths are usually due to aortic rupture or dissection. We report the case of a pregnant, hypertensive patient with marked reduction of the calibre of the abdominal aorta (residual calibre 0.3-0.6 cm) in the intrarenal area and with left ventricular hypertrophy and mild mitral and tricuspidal regurgitation. Through multidisciplinary cooperation and an appropriate therapeutic protocol, it was possible to manage the pregnancy till term successfully.