LOS ANGELES (April 21 2010) –Physician scientists at the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute are presenting new findings on heart transplantation rejection factors such as race and gender, the effects of pre-transplant smoking and whether homeless organ donors put recipients at higher risk for complications. The presentations will take place April 21 – 24 in Chicago during the 30th Annual Scientific Meeting of the International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation.
"The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation Scientific Sessions bring together the world's experts in these fields which also includes basic science and mechanical circulatory assist devices," said Jon Kobashigawa, M.D., director of the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute heart transplant program. "This important dialogue and exchange of valuable information will lead to improved survival and quality of life of our patients."
An associate director of the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Kobashigawa is a past president of the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. His research has resulted in groundbreaking medical protocols, such as customized anti-rejection medications for transplant patients.
Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute researchers will make more than 30 presentations during the meeting, including:
The Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute is internationally recognized for outstanding heart care built on decades of innovation and leading-edge research. From cardiac imaging and advanced diagnostics to surgical repair of complex heart problems to the training of the heart specialists of tomorrow and research that is deepening medical knowledge and practice, the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute is known around the world for excellence and innovations.