[Neonatal heart transplantation. First results]

Presse Med. 1992 Dec 2;21(41):2009.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Two 5- and 17-days old neonates with hypoplastic left heart syndrome respectively underwent orthotopic heart transplantation. The donor-recipient weight ratio was +58 percent and +88 percent; ischemic time was 144 and 167 min. The immunosuppressive protocol included thymoglobulin during the induction period and a classical 3-drug therapy, with a rapid tapering off of prednisone over 3 weeks. No infectious complication was observed; each infant experimented one episode of acute rejection, successfully treated with prednisolone. Forty-three months and 10 months later, the 2 children are doing well, with normal renal function and normal growth. No late rejection episode was observed. Heart transplantation in neonates is feasible, the short-term and mid-term results are good. Despite important ethical problems, heart transplantation represents a great hope for neonates with inoperable congenital heart defects.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Graft Rejection / drug therapy
  • Graft Rejection / etiology
  • Heart Defects, Congenital / surgery*
  • Heart Transplantation / adverse effects
  • Heart Transplantation / methods*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Prednisolone / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Prednisolone