Researchers are using space-based experiments to develop new methods for protecting and repairing heart tissue, with the goal of creating more robust tissue engineering techniques. By studying the effects of microgravity on heart tissue, scientists hope to identify new targets for therapy and improve patient outcomes.
Experts at ISHLT's annual meeting explored how countries allocate heart transplants, with a focus on balancing competing priorities like saving the sickest patients and ensuring fairness. The discussion highlighted key differences in global allocation schemes, including France's data-driven model, which aims to prioritize patients base...
At the ISHLT meeting, experts discussed the use of robotic technology in lung transplantation, highlighting potential benefits such as improved recovery and expanded access to transplantation for frail patients. However, Dr. Hermann Reichenspurner presented counterpoints, emphasizing that current evidence does not demonstrate superior ...
Advances in pediatric heart care have increased survival rates, but a shortage of donor hearts means many children still die waiting. Experts urge a shift from 'perfect' donor hearts to carefully selected organs and technological innovations to expand the donor pool.
Partial heart transplantation replaces only defective valves and related structures, eliminating need for repeat replacements. This procedure can provide thousands of additional valve transplants annually, benefiting young patients worldwide.
A Canadian nephrologist shared common-sense, patient-centered solutions to address inequities in organ transplantation. His team co-developed practical approaches, including culturally safe spaces, navigation support, and storytelling through videos featuring Indigenous patients.
Experts weigh the pros and cons of an upper age limit for lung transplants, citing concerns over organ shortage and quality of life. Some argue that setting a hard age limit ignores biological variability and comorbidities, while others suggest increasing donor supply and utilization could solve the issue.
The number of pediatric lung transplants is expected to decline as highly effective therapies for cystic fibrosis reduce the need for transplantation. Complex cases with multi-system disease and severe cardiopulmonary compromise are on the rise, requiring highly specialized teams and close collaboration.
A new global allocation system is being proposed to address inequities in organ allocation for heart transplants. The proposal aims to reduce disparities and ensure no viable donor heart goes unused globally.
Recent AI tools offer surgeons assistance in complex decision-making by analyzing donor hearts and providing a data-driven approach. This could lead to increased efficiency in the donor process, reducing the likelihood of hearts going unused due to time constraints.
New molecular testing methods are transforming post-transplant care by detecting potential heart injury or rejection earlier than traditional biopsies. This enables physicians to reduce immunosuppressive medicine dosage in low-risk patients, potentially improving patient outcomes beyond the first year post-heart transplant.
A study on donor lungs preserved outside the body demonstrated that HOPE is a safe and effective method for lung preservation, with no rejections and similar short-term outcomes compared to direct transplantation. The study found that extending perfusion times can optimize donor lungs for future therapies.
The Pediatric Heart Transplant Alliance is a coalition of six leading organizations working to advance pediatric heart transplantation through research, education, and advocacy. The alliance aims to improve patient outcomes and quality of life for children with transplanted hearts.
Researchers at ISHLT marked the 10-year anniversary of modern DCD heart donation, significantly increasing transplant volumes worldwide. Comparable outcomes have been achieved with DCD hearts compared to traditional DBD hearts, leading to a surge in DCD programs globally.
Machine perfusion technology significantly extends the time donor hearts can be transported, enabling longer-distance transplants. This innovation has already led to more organs being accepted from regions previously unsuitable due to transportation constraints.
Pediatric hearts fail due to acquired and genetic disorders or congenital heart disease, requiring mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices. However, adult devices are often used off-label in pediatric patients, deterring innovation and limiting access to life-saving technology.
A day-long conference brought together experts to present ground-breaking outcomes research on CTEPH treatments. The session covered new medications, refined techniques, and innovative approaches to improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes.
The first-ever Cardiogenic Shock Academy features a simulation lab, providing hands-on training for treating patients in cardiogenic shock. More than 160 healthcare practitioners from around the world attended the academy, which aimed to address the lack of conclusive research for managing CS.
The International Society for Health and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) has re-launched the Global IMACS Registry to collect data on patients with durable mechanical circulatory support devices. The registry aims to advance MCS therapy and improve patient outcomes globally.
Patients with cystic fibrosis who develop life-threatening lung infections pose significant challenges for lung transplantation. The success rate of lung transplants in these patients is lower compared to those without such infections, sparking debate about whether to allocate donor lungs to them.
Researchers present data on gene-based blood testing that may help reduce immunosuppression and predict cardiac allograft rejection. Non-invasive molecular testing of routine blood samples provides information on the immune, inflammatory, and injury status of transplanted hearts before tissue damage occurs.
Experimental work on utilizing donor organs from cardiac arrested donors shows promise in addressing the critical organ shortage for lung and possibly heart transplantation. Strategies for organ preservation during transport, such as Ex-Vivo Lung Perfusion (EVLP) and Organ Care System (OCS), are also being discussed.
The National Institutes of Health has awarded contracts to develop new mechanical circulatory support devices for children with congenital heart defects. These devices are designed to decrease wait list mortality and improve efficiency of organ utilization in pediatric patients.
A recent study presented at ISHLT meeting reveals that profiling gene expression can detect organ rejection in lung transplant patients. The LARGO study uses quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction to identify molecular signatures associated with acute cellular rejection.
Reducing time interval for transported organs has been shown to increase survivorship and improve outcomes in heart transplant patients. The Organ Care System (OCS) uses warm blood perfusion technology to maintain organs in a living state during transport, allowing for evaluation of organ function and reducing cold ischemic time.
The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) is evaluating a new mathematical modeling system for lung allocation in the US, focusing on its effectiveness and comparing it to systems used in Europe. The system aims to give every patient an equal chance at transplant based on various factors.
The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation releases comprehensive global guidelines for managing heart failure patients prior to transplantation. The guidelines aim to enhance patient care, optimize outcomes, and improve resource allocation.
Researchers have identified novel drug therapies, including endothelin antagonists and prostacyclin, that improve quality and quantity of life for patients with PAH. These treatments offer hope for patients who previously faced lung transplantation.
Research supports pioneering hypothesis that infants' immature immune systems allow them to accept transplanted organs from mismatched blood groups. This results in improved infant survival and expands the potential donor pool.
A pivotal study found that CyIS significantly reduces chronic rejection and prolongs survival in lung-transplant recipients, offering hope for a breakthrough therapy to address this unmet need. The study demonstrated an 84% four-year survival rate with CyIS compared to 56% with placebo.
The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation has created new, comprehensive guidelines to help organ centers update their policies. The guidelines aim to bridge patients to transplant by offering pharmacological, surgical, and device-based interventions.
A new pump device, partnered with stem cell technology, aims to address heart failure and improve heart function. Research on ventricular assist devices (VADs) and pediatric devices is also ongoing, with a focus on developing smaller devices for children and improving outcomes.
AlloMap molecular expression testing enables proactive monitoring of immune system signals, identifying rejection before it occurs. This non-invasive technology eliminates the need for frequent biopsies, improving individual patient outcomes and reducing patient discomfort.
A new study published in Nature Medicine shows that infants with Type O blood can accept hearts from donors with Type A blood due to their immature immune system. This breakthrough allows for greater donor compatibility and more successful transplants.
A 24-month study found that everolimus reduced intimal thickening and cardiovascular events, while sirolimus showed plaque regression. The results suggest that intravascular ultrasound measurements can be used as a valid surrogate for therapeutic intervention.
Researchers developed a multi-gene molecular expression assay test to identify the quiescent state after heart transplantation and predict future occurrence of rejection. The test can help manage transplant patients' immunosuppression regimens and reduce discomfort during constant monitoring.
A randomized, prospective study found that tacrolimus + mycophenolate mofetil and steroids significantly reduce incidence of treated rejection and improve graft function compared to other regimens. The combination therapy also showed better lipid profiles and reduced risk of certain infections.
A recent study found that mycophenolate mofetil reduces intimal thickening and improves long-term outcomes for heart transplant patients compared to azathioprine. The study used a site-to-site IVUS analysis of 196 patients, showing significantly less progression of vascular disease in CellCept-treated patients.
Researchers are investigating the safety of heart and lung transplants for HIV-positive patients when viral infections are well-controlled. Transplant teams must balance anti-rejection drugs with anti-retroviral therapies to avoid complications.
Dr. Magdi Yacoub will receive the ISHLT Lifetime Achievement Award for his pioneering work in heart recovery using support devices. His approach, known as 'bridge to recovery,' has broadened the usage of heart assist devices and improved patient outcomes.