GCSE Biology (AQA)

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Heart Transplants

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Organisation Animal Tissues, Organs and Organ Systems

Heart Transplants

2:49 Heart Disease Treatments
Spec 4.2.2.4
Previous Stents & Statins Next Evaluating Heart Disease Treatments
  • Heart or heart and lung transplants are needed when these organs fail.
  • Heart failure occurs when the heart stops beating effectively.
  • Heart transplants involve replacing a faulty heart with a donor heart.
  • Donor hearts are sourced from individuals who have donated their organs post-mortem.
  • Matching donor and recipient tissue is crucial to prevent transplant rejection.
  • Post-transplant, patients must take immunosuppressants to reduce rejection risks, which suppresses the immune system and increases infection risk.
  • Patients often face long waiting lists for suitable donor organs.
  • Artificial hearts can be used temporarily while waiting for a transplant.
  • The procedure to implant an artificial heart is invasive and usually requires a prolonged hospital stay.
  • Heart transplants have a long recovery period but can significantly extend and improve the quality of life.
  • Risks of heart transplants include lengthy operations, potential for bleeding and infection, and the lifelong need for immunosuppressants.

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