If the infant does not exhibit symptoms, the doctor will probably detect it when he or she hears a heart murmur, weak pulses in the legs, or high blood pressure in the arms during a routine examination. Echocardiography is most common to confirm the diagnosis, but in some cases an MRI or CT scan is employed.
Medication can treat the symptoms, but surgery is the only cure. Balloon dilation and stents are minimally invasive, but they are only options in a few cases. Usually the operation requires a more involved reconstruction of the aorta. This type of procedure is usually performed when the child is between 3-5 years old. In the meantime, medications are used to control symptoms.
