Optimal Timing for Surgery in Neonates with Coarctation of the Aorta

Coarctation of the aorta, as a type of congenital heart disease, refers to an abnormal narrowing in a segment of the aorta, which subsequently hinders normal blood flow. The optimal timing for coarctation repair surgery in newborns must be individually assessed based on the severity of the infant's condition, overall health status, and the medical resources available at the treating institution. A treatment plan should then be determined by the physician after comprehensive evaluation.

Generally, if an infant is feeding well and in relatively good health, physicians usually recommend surgery around six months of age. This timing is based on the infant's relatively stable physiological development at this stage, thereby presenting a lower risk associated with surgery.

For newborns who have already developed severe symptoms, such as heart failure or difficulty breathing, urgent intervention is required and surgery should be arranged immediately to prevent further deterioration and associated risks. Close postoperative monitoring, along with medication and rehabilitation therapy, enables most infants to recover and resume normal life.