What is the most common type of coarctation of the aorta?

The most common type of coarctation of the aorta is postductal coarctation. This form of coarctation typically occurs distal to the left subclavian artery, usually just after the ductus arteriosus, which is vital during fetal development. The significance of postductal coarctation lies in its frequency and the clinical implications it carries.

In postductal coarctation, the aorta is narrowed in a region that typically results in a differential in blood pressure between the arms and legs due to inadequate blood flow to the lower body, which can lead to complications such as hypertension in the upper body and hypotension in the lower body. This presentation allows for a clear diagnosis during physical examinations, contributing to its common recognition in clinical settings.

Overall, the prevalence of postductal coarctation and its characteristic clinical features make it a fundamental concept in cardiovascular anatomy and pathology, particularly in pediatric cardiology.