In a heart transplant, a healthy donor heart is surgically used to replace a failing or seriously ill heart. It is usually taken into consideration for end-stage heart failure after all other forms of treatment (medication, surgery, or devices such as LVADs) have failed.
Is a Heart Transplant Necessary?
• Heart failure in its final stages (due to cardiomyopathy, ischemic heart disease, etc.).
• Severe cardiac disease that is congenital (defects that cannot be repaired).
• Dangerous arrhythmias that don't respond to therapy.
• Failed prior heart operations or devices (e.g., ECMO, LVAD).
Symptoms of Heart Transplantation
Patients who require a transplant typically have increasing, severe heart failure, exhibiting symptoms like:
Early Signs and Symptoms
• Dyspnea (breathlessness) while at rest or with little exercise.
• Weakness and extreme exhaustion.
• Chronic coughing or wheezing (caused by lung fluid).
Advanced Symptoms
• Swelling (edema) in legs, ankles, or abdomen.
• Irregular or rapid heartbeat (arrhythmias).
• Chest pain (angina) even at rest.
• Fainting spells (syncope) from poor circulation.
• Low blood pressure with dizziness.
• Inability to perform daily activities (e.g., walking, climbing stairs).
Critical Symptoms (Requiring Urgent Evaluation)
• Cardiogenic shock (life-threatening drop in heart function).
• Dependence on IV medications or mechanical support (e.g., LVAD, ECMO).
• Oxygen dependency due to heart failure.
