Heart transplantation in cardiomyopathy
Hetzer, R.; Schüler, S.; Warnecke, H.; Süthoff, U.; Lang, W.; Wonigeit, K.; Herrmann, G.; Hepp, A.; Witt, E.; Schaps, D.
Herz 10(3): 149-156
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0340-9937 PMID: 3894187 Document Number: 257919
Within the spectrum of presently accepted candidates for heart transplantation, end-stage heart failure in dilated cardiomyopathy has become the principle indication. Although several indicators of poor prognosis have been specified, the decision for heart transplantation is primarily made on clinical grounds. Expected long-term survival after transplantation is 60 to 80% at one year and more than 50% at five years. Since July, 1983, 50 patients underwent orthotopic heart transplantation, 38 of whom had been suffering from dilated cardiomyopathy. Ages ranged from nine to 54 years with a mean of 40 years. At present, 38 patients are alive, 34 are discharged from hospital, 14 have returned to work or school. Physical capacity and cardiac function are normal. There was no difference between the cardiomyopathy patients and the coronary artery disease patients with respect to rate and severity of rejection episodes, infection and long-term findings. Heart transplantation is considered a promising routine treatment for end-stage heart failure in particular in younger patients with dilated cardiomyopathy.