A rare heart defect characterized by complete lack of anatomical continuity between the transverse aortic arch and the descending thoracic aorta. AAI should be distinguished anatomically from atresia of the aortic arch where continuity between these segments is achieved by an imperforate fibrous strand of various lengths.

An insufficiency of the aortic valve, leading to regurgitation (backward flow) of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle.