Pediatric heart transplant: Perioperative complications and management

Abstract

Pediatric heart transplantation is increasingly being performed, particularly in children with congenital heart disease (CHD). In younger patients, transplants may occur across different blood group types. Posttransplant early complications include graft dysfunction, vasoplegia, arrhythmias, and infections. Recent advances have improved posttransplant outcomes, but children with underlying CHD continue to experience increased postoperative complications. Severe graft dysfunction requiring mechanical circulatory support after transplantation is associated with higher mortality rates in children.