The role of aortic compliance in determination of coarctation severity: Lumped parameter modeling, in vitro study and clinical evaluation.

Early detection and accurate estimation of the extent of coarctation of the aorta (COA) is critical to long-term outcome. Peak-to-peak trans-coarctation pressure gradient (PKdP) higher than 20mmHg is an indication for interventional/surgical repair. Patients with COA have reduced proximal and distal aortic compliances.