Qualidade de vida após correção cirúrgica de coarctação da aorta. Análise retrospectiva de um grupo de pacientes seguidos a longo prazo

Amaral, Fernando; Granzotti, João A; Nunes, Marcos A; Somerville, Jane

PURPOSE:

To report on the long-term results after operation for coarctation of the aorta.

METHODS:

One hundred and four patients were studied, divided in four groups (G1, G2, G3 and G4), according to age at operation.

Data analysed:

reoperation, persistent hypertension, residual lesions, left ventricular function and ability index.

RESULTS:

Reoperation was frequent, mainly in G1 (60) and G4 (29).

Resting hypertension occurred predominantly in cases operated on after the 10th year of life:

28(G3) and 29(G4). Exercise hypertension was found in cases operated on after the 20th year.

Residual lesions were frequent:

97, 98, 83and 65(G1 to G4). Individual functional limitation was uncommon. The ability index was normal in the great majority of the patients (94).

CONCLUSION:

Reoperation is frequent, particularly for recoarctation and aortic stenosis. Rest and/or exercise hypertension is common and related to delayed surgery. Aortic residual lesions are frequent. Physical limitation is uncommon. Postoperative follow-up is essential in order to detect late complications, which, usually, do not limit the individual patient.