Aortic coarctation is a narrowing of the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Today, one of the most effective and least invasive ways to correct this condition is by placing a small metal mesh tube (known as a stent) or widening the narrowed area with a specialised balloon.
However, in children and adolescents, there is a natural challenge: as the body grows, treatment needs to adapt to the patient’s changing height.
A recent study published in the Revista Española de Cardiología (Amici A, et al. 2026) analysed more than 500 procedures and demonstrated something simple yet fundamental: a child’s height is the best guide for determining the required stent size and when minor adjustments may be needed in the future.
Key findings from the study:
- A direct relationship with height: As the patient grows, a larger arterial diameter is needed.
- Better planning for clinicians: Using a mathematical formula based on height, specialists can predict the most suitable time to carry out any necessary enlargements as the child develops.
- Safe outcomes: The procedure immediately restores smooth blood flow without placing unnecessary strain on the heart.
VACS® balloons: technology adapted to every stage of life
To successfully carry out these procedures and any later enlargements, specialists need tools that offer maximum safety and control.
At Biogen Diagnóstica, we support medical teams with the VACS® aortic dilatation balloon range (VACS® II and VACS® III):
- VACS® II: A highly resistant balloon designed to expand the artery evenly and safely, ensuring precise dilation.
- VACS® III: A balloon with an agile design that facilitates access to difficult or narrow areas within the aorta.
These solutions enable clinicians to support each patient’s growth with confidence at every procedure.
Original scientific source: Amici A, Bethge-Ng GL, Ewert P, et al. Stent implantation for aortic coarctation in young patients: height matters. Rev Esp Cardiol. 2026;79(8):670–679. DOI: 10.1016/j.recesp.2025.12.015
