Characterisation of spatiotemporal aortic flow and aortic wall biomechanics in coarctation

Abstract

[first paragraph of article]

The thoracic aorta performs sophisticated functions which depends largely on its almost unique structure¹. Coarctation of the aorta is a relatively common congenital anomaly, which causes a heavy burden of morbidity and mortality worldwide. As emphasized by Suradi and Hijazy in this issue of the journal, the long-term results can be very variable due to many factors. There is now a growing realization that the condition is associated with different forms of aortopathy, which are either a direct result of, or associated with, the narrowing^2–4. These changes of the aorta can interfere with the long-term results of surgical correction of the anomaly and, therefore, need to be thoroughly defined and understood. Advances in modern imaging techniques, coupled with detailed computerized analysis, offer new opportunities to evaluate in vivo the mechano-biology of the arterial wall and the factors which could influence it, such as the spatiotemporal pattern of flow.