Preparing questions in advance can help patients to have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients or parents may wish to ask their doctor the following  questions about coarctation of the aorta:

1. Why do you suspect this condition in my child?
   
   
2. What signs may indicate a medical emergency with this condition?
   
   
3. What tests will be done to diagnose coarctation of the aorta?
   
   
4. How will the tests be performed?
   
   
5. Does my child have any other heart defects?
   
   
6. What are my treatment options for coarctation of the aorta?
   
   
7. Will my child need surgery to repair the defect?
   
   
8. How soon must the surgery be performed?
   
   
9. What is the recuperation period following surgery?
   
   
10. Will my child need medications after surgery?
    
    
11. What are the chances the aorta will become narrowed again?
    
    
12. Will my child have any restrictions from the condition?
    
    
13. How will the condition affect my child later in life?
    
    
14. Am I at higher risk for having another child with this condition?