The American journal of cardiology
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A published formula containing minimal aortic cross-sectional area and the flow deceleration pattern in the descending aorta obtained by cardiovascular magnetic resonance predicts significant coarctation of the aorta (CoA). However, the existing formula is complicated to use in clinical practice and has not been externally validated. Consequently, its clinical utility has been limited. ⋯ Indexed minimal aortic cross-sectional area and heart rate-corrected flow deceleration time in the descending aorta were independent predictors of CoA gradient ≥ 20 mm Hg (p <0.01 for both). A prediction tree combining these variables reached a sensitivity and specificity of 90% and 76%, respectively. In conclusion, the presented prediction tree on the basis of cutoff values is easy to use and may help guide the management of patients investigated for CoA.