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Heart Transplantation

A surgical procedure in which a failing heart in eligible patients with end-stage heart failure is replaced with a healthy donor heart.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Heart Transplantation?

Heart transplantation is the replacement of a patient's failing heart with a healthy heart from a brain-dead donor. It is reserved for patients with end-stage heart failure whose life expectancy and quality of life have severely deteriorated despite all medical and surgical therapies.

Eligible candidates are selected through a rigorous evaluation process. Age, comorbidities, psychological adjustment, and anticipated adherence are all considered. Time on the waiting list varies from months to years.

After successful transplantation, lifelong immunosuppressive therapy is required. The most important long-term concerns are rejection and the infection risks associated with immunosuppression.

Symptoms

Conditions that may indicate heart transplantation:
NYHA class IV: severe symptoms and breathlessness even at rest
Heart failure progression despite optimal therapy
Recurrent hospitalizations and life-threatening arrhythmias
Dependence on a mechanical support device (VAD)
Low peak VO2 (<12 mL/kg/min)

Risk Factors

Factors that may preclude transplantation:
Pulmonary hypertension (high pulmonary vascular resistance)
Active infection or cancer
Advanced age and significant comorbidities
Anticipated non-adherence to immunosuppressive therapy
Active substance use disorder

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Referral to a transplant center when a diagnosis of end-stage heart failure is made
  • If symptoms continue to worsen despite all therapies
  • For regular evaluation appointments while on the waiting list
  • Seek emergency care for any sign of infection or rejection after transplantation
  • For annual cardiac biopsy and echocardiographic follow-up

Treatment Methods

01
Bridge-to-transplant therapy: IV inotropes or a ventricular assist device (VAD)
02
Orthotopic heart transplantation surgery
03
Immunosuppressive therapy: a calcineurin inhibitor + MMF + steroid triple regimen
04
Rejection therapy: high-dose IV steroids or antithymocyte globulin
05
Infection prophylaxis (CMV, PCP, and others)
06
Long-term follow-up at cardiology, infectious-disease, and transplant clinics

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.