What complication is associated with coarctation of the aorta?

The correct complication associated with coarctation of the aorta is poor perfusion to the upper extremities. When the aorta is narrowed, it leads to a significant difference in blood pressure and blood flow between the upper and lower parts of the body. Specifically, the region after the coarctation—typically located just distal to the left subclavian artery—receives inadequate blood supply. As a result, the upper extremities (arms and head) may experience high blood pressure due to the increased workload on the heart above the coarctation, while the lower extremities may experience lower blood pressure and decreased perfusion.

This differential blood flow is a direct consequence of how blood is being supplied, with the upper body receiving more blood flow compared to the lower body, leading to complications such as hypertension in the upper body and inadequate blood supply in the lower body. Thus, recognizing the impact of aortic coarctation on blood flow distribution is essential for understanding its complications.