Children's Hospital Colorado
Heart

Interrupted Aortic Arch (IAA)

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Interrupted aortic arch (IAA) is the absence of a section of the aorta, which is the main blood vessel supplying blood to the body.

Types of IAA

There are 3 types of IAA and they are classified according to the location of arch interruption. All 3 types of IAA are serious and heart surgery is required in the newborn period to correct this defect.

What causes an interrupted aortic arch?

IAA is believed to result from poor development of the aortic arch system very early in pregnancy.

Complications caused by IAA

Babies with IAA almost always have a large ventricular septal defect (VSD) as well. They are also at increased risk for a chromosomal abnormality called 22q11 deletion syndrome.

Next steps

  • Would you like to learn more about us?

    Learn more about the Heart Institute
  • Do you have questions about your child’s condition?

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Get to know our pediatric experts.

Christopher Rausch, MD

Christopher Rausch, MD

Cardiology - Pediatric

Traci Nivens, MD

Traci Nivens, MD

Ob/Gyn Obstetrics & Gynecology

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Christine Reed, FNP-BC

Christine Reed, FNP-BC

Certified Family Nurse Practitioner

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Bethany Diamond Primeaux, CPNP-AC/PC

Bethany Diamond Primeaux, CPNP-AC/PC

Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner