Pediatric heart transplantation: a clinical overview
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Published on: April 27, 2019
1Heart and Lung Transplantation, Children 's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
Insights
Pediatric heart transplantation has advanced significantly since the first infant xenotransplant in 1984. Today, thousands of children receive heart transplants, with survival rates improving for those with heart disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Transplantation Medicine
Background:
- The first infant heart xenotransplant (Baby Fae, 1984) was a landmark event, despite a short survival of 20 days.
- Her case catalyzed advancements in pediatric heart transplantation, aiming to improve outcomes for children with critical heart conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of the field of pediatric heart transplantation.
- To highlight the historical progression and current status of infant and child heart transplants.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical data and significant milestones in pediatric heart transplantation.
- Analysis of survival statistics reported by the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation.
Main Results:
- Over 4,500 pediatric heart transplants have been performed on children aged 0-18.
- Survival rates at 1, 2, and 5 years are reported as 79%, 70%, and 67%, respectively, for all diagnoses and ages.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric heart transplantation has evolved from experimental procedures to a life-saving treatment for children.
- Continued advancements offer improved long-term survival and quality of life for pediatric patients with heart disease.
Abstract:
In 1984 "Baby Fae" was the first infant to receive a heart transplant from a baboon. Though she only lived 20 days, her legacy began the movement to advance pediatric heart transplantation so that children with lethal heart disease could live to experience childhood. Sixteen years later more than 4,500 pediatric heart transplants have been performed in children ages 0 to 18. The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation reports a 79% survival at 1 year. 70% survival at 2 years. and 67% at 5 years for all ages and diagnoses. This article provides an overview of pediatric heart transplantation.
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