THE IMPACT OF CONGENITAL HEART DEFECTS ON AORTIC FUNCTION IN CHILDREN

This article analyzes the impact of congenital heart defects on aortic function in children based on contemporary scientific literature. Congenital heart defects are among the most common pathologies in pediatric cardiology and are associated with hemodynamic disturbances, structural and functional changes in the aortic wall, and insufficiency of systemic circulation. In particular, defects such as coarctation of the aorta, Tetralogy of Fallot, patent ductus arteriosus, and bicuspid aortic valve significantly affect aortic elasticity, blood flow characteristics, and hemodynamic pressure. The article highlights the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying these changes, as well as the diagnostic approaches and clinical significance of altered aortic function in pediatric patients.