Cardiac Transplantation – Status in 2011

Abstract

Heart transplantation finally became a reality in 1967 and it continues to evolve, with changes in donor availability, recipient characteristics, waiting list times and post-transplant outcomes. Improvements in donor management, surgical techniques and post-operative care, development of potent immunosuppressive drugs and advances in the management of long-term complications have improved the quality of life and survival of heart transplant recipients. The introduction of mechanical circulatory support devices is providing an increasingly safe and effective alternative treatment for patients who are awaiting transplantation or those who are not transplant candidates. In this article, we review the current status of heart transplantation in 2011, with an eye towards future directions.