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[Combination heart-lung transplantation in children: 4-year experience in London]
L W van Heurn1, I R Martin, M J Elliott
1Hospital for Sick Children, Cardiothoracic Unit, London.
Insights
Combined heart and lung transplants in children show promising survival rates. Most pediatric patients undergoing this procedure are alive and active post-transplant.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric surgery
- Cardiothoracic transplantation
- Immunology
Context:
- Combined heart and lung transplantation is a complex procedure for children with end-stage cardiopulmonary disease.
- Great Ormond Street Hospital has performed this surgery on 21 pediatric patients since 1987.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the outcomes and survival rates of pediatric patients undergoing combined heart and lung transplantation.
- To assess the long-term quality of life for surviving pediatric recipients.
Summary:
- Eight of the 21 pediatric patients died between one day and 21 months post-operation.
- Actuarial survival rates were 76% at 1 year and 60% at 3-4 years.
- 13 children survived and participated in age-appropriate activities.
Impact:
- This study highlights the feasibility and long-term benefits of combined heart and lung transplantation in pediatric populations.
- The findings suggest that successful transplantation can lead to significant improvements in quality of life for children with severe heart and lung conditions.
Abstract:
Since 1987, 21 children under 16 years of age have undergone combined heart and lung transplantation at Great Ormond Street Hospital, London. All children had terminal pulmonary or cardiopulmonary disease. Eight children died one day to 21 months after operation. Actuarial survival was 76% (SEM 10) at 1 year and 60% (SEM 12) at 3 and 4 years after transplantation. 13 children were alive, and all took part in all age-appropriate activities.