Preductal coarctation is best described as narrowing proximal to the PDA.

Preductal coarctation is best described as narrowing proximal to the PDA.

• A. It narrows distal to the PDA
• B. It narrows proximal to the PDA
• C. It occurs at the PDA
• D. It has no relation to the PDA

Answer: (B)

Preductal coarctation means the narrowing of the aorta occurs before the ductus arteriosus originates. In other words, the constricted segment is proximal to where the ductus arteriosus connects to the aorta. This infantile form is often tied to the PDA because if the PDA remains open, it can still supply blood to the descending aorta and lower body after birth despite the proximal narrowing. If the narrowing were distal to the PDA, that would be postductal (adult-type) coarctation, and if it occurred at the ductus itself, it would be ductal coarctation. Saying there’s no relation to the PDA would also be incorrect for this congenital pattern.

Preductal coarctation means the narrowing of the aorta occurs before the ductus arteriosus originates. In other words, the constricted segment is proximal to where the ductus arteriosus connects to the aorta. This infantile form is often tied to the PDA because if the PDA remains open, it can still supply blood to the descending aorta and lower body after birth despite the proximal narrowing. If the narrowing were distal to the PDA, that would be postductal (adult-type) coarctation, and if it occurred at the ductus itself, it would be ductal coarctation. Saying there’s no relation to the PDA would also be incorrect for this congenital pattern.