Abstract
The optimal interventional management of coarctation of the aorta (CoA) remains controversial. Although some are strong advocates for surgery, the timing of operation in elective cases has been a matter of debate. Among those who advocate balloon angioplasty, some recommend dilation only of recurrent CoA. Others recommend dilation of native CoA, but only beyond a certain age. Finally, some are strong proponents of balloon angioplasty, even in the neonatal period, recognizing the need for reintervention (balloon dilation or surgery) in a significant proportion of patients. Recent reports suggest similar or slightly superior acute results of balloon dilation for native compared with recurrent CoA. Balloon-expandable stents are being used increasingly in complex CoAs and in failed dilations. A large multicenter study is required to determine the respective clinical roles of surgery and balloon dilation in the management of CoA.

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