Heart Transplant Day 2023: Evolution of Heart Transplant Practices

Heart Transplant Day is observed annually on August 3 to raise awareness about the life-saving procedure that replaces a damaged heart with a healthy donor heart. This day honors the courage of transplant recipients, their families, and the selfless organ donors. It serves as a reminder of the importance of organ donation and the transformative impact it has on patients’ lives. Through education and advocacy, Heart Transplant Day aims to promote empathy, compassion, and support for those facing heart disease and the incredible medical advancements that have improved countless lives. Dr. Milind Hote, Cardio Surgeon, AIIMS New Delhi answers some very important questions on heart transplant day.

1. Can you provide an overview of the historical development of heart and lung transplant practices? What are the major changes that have come about in the process from the time you performed your first transplant to this day?

The history of heart and lung transplant practices has undergone a remarkable journey that has transformed the landscape of cardiac care and improved the lives of countless patients. We have witnessed positive trends in both organ donation numbers and the availability of specialized transplant teams in India, contributing to the success of heart and lung transplants. These advancements have made it easier for patients to access transplant services and receive suitable organs in a timely manner.

2. What are the challenges that early heart and lung transplant pioneers, such as yourself, faced, and how have they been addressed in modern practices?

One of the biggest challenges faced by early heart and lung transplant pioneers was the limited availability of suitable donors. However, public awareness and perception surrounding organ donation have significantly improved over the years, leading to more families being willing to donate organs. This change can be attributed to successful transplant stories and advancements in medical science that have made transplants more viable and safer.

3. What have been some of the key milestones or breakthroughs that have improved the success rate of heart and lung transplants over the years?

Heart transplants have become more successful due to advancements in immunosuppressive medications, skilled surgeons and transplant teams, and better post-operative care. The availability of advanced ICU facilities and machines like ECMO has also greatly contributed to improved outcomes for transplant recipients.

4. How have technological advancements influenced the evolution of heart and lung transplant procedures over the years? Further, in recent years, what are some of the emerging technologies or innovations that hold promise for further advancements of these procedures?

Emerging technologies such as DCD (Donation after Circulatory Death) and advanced organ storage boxes have enhanced heart transplant procedures. DCD allows for the recovery of organs from donors after cardiac death, expanding the pool of potential donors. Improved organ storage boxes have extended the preservation time, increasing the viability of donor hearts.

5. Could you elaborate on the clinical improvements in surgical techniques and post-operative care that have contributed to better patient outcomes?

Clinical practices like ECMO and Nitric Oxide ventilation have significantly improved post-transplant health outcomes. ECMO provides temporary cardiac and respiratory support to critical patients before and after surgery, while Nitric Oxide ventilation prevents complications like right heart dysfunction.

6. What does the future hold for heart and lung transplant practices, and how do you envision the field evolving in the coming years?

The future of heart and lung transplant practices is promising, with the introduction of new technologies and increased training of professionals. We expect the number of transplant procedures in India to steadily increase.