Little is known about the impact of a coarctation repair on the functional outcomes of young adults. This study aimed to determine (1) the functional and mental health status in young adults with previous coarctation repair, and (2) the impact of late hypertension on their quality of life.

A cross-sectional study using validated self-reported questionnaires (Short Form 36 version 2 [SF-36v2], Beck Depression Inventory [BDI], and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory [STAI]) was performed in 54 patients aged 15–47 years with previous paediatric coarctation repair. Questionnaire scores were compared to healthy age- and gender-matched controls. Patients’ previously published 24-hour blood pressure monitoring results were included.

Late hypertension was present in 64% (34/54) at a mean of 29±8 years after coarctation repair. SF-36v2 mean physical component summary score was significantly lower in coarctation patients compared with controls (53.1±6.8 vs 56.0±4.7, p=0.02), but there was no significant difference in mean mental component summary score (p=0.2). SF-36v2 mean role emotional score tended to be associated with 10 mmHg increases in mean 24-hour systolic blood pressure (regression coefficient 4.3 p=0.06). STAI mean trait anxiety score tended to be higher in coarctation patients compared with controls (36.6±9.0 vs 33.5±7.8, p=0.06). There was no significant difference in BDI scores between patients and controls.

Young adults with previous coarctation repair report poorer physical health and tended towards higher anxiety trait compared to healthy controls. Strategies to improve self-reported physical health and anxiety should be explored. Long-term assessment of quality of life outcomes in coarctation patients is warranted.