[Ethical aspects of heart transplantation]

Since the very beginning of organ transplantation, ethical considerations have been regularly discussed. However, all important religions support transplantation. On the donor side there is continuous argument on the definition of brain death. The legal approach in determining whether explantation of organs is allowed or not is country-specific. In Switzerland, moreover, rules still differ from one canton to another and a new transplantation law is at present under consideration. To avoid further shortage of organs, various models have been suggested (such as rewarded giftings) but rejected on ethical grounds. On the recipients' side the main discussion centres on who should be the first to receive an offered organ. Specific questions on xenotransplansplantation and transplantation in newborns are briefly addressed.