[Heart transplantation in Germany 2002].

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Transplantation Medicine
• Surgical Procedures

Background:

• Heart transplantation has evolved into a standardized treatment for end-stage heart failure over 35 years.
• Improved medical therapies and alternative treatments (e.g., revascularization, mechanical assist devices) impact transplantation indications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To reassess the indications for heart transplantation in light of current medical advancements.
• To establish a new heart allocation system based on updated knowledge and legal frameworks.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of outcomes from a large number of heart transplantations.
• Review of randomized studies on immunosuppressive drugs.
• Implementation of a central documentation system for transplantations in Germany.

Main Results:

• Reliable calculation of risks, benefits, and limitations of heart transplantation is now possible.
• A new heart allocation system has been established following the German Transplantation Law of 1999.
• Centralized documentation enables enhanced quality control of heart transplantations.

Conclusions:

• The evolving landscape of heart failure treatment requires a re-evaluation of heart transplantation indications.
• A robust allocation system and centralized data collection are crucial for optimizing heart transplantation outcomes and quality.