Heart Transplant in Gurgaon, Haryana

When a patient's diseased heart cannot survive, they undergo heart transplants. Health experts at Artemis Hospitals suggest this surgery when medication and other treatments are not working well for the patient.

At Artemis Hospitals, we have a highly experienced team of cardiologists and cardiac surgeons, supported by advanced infrastructure and dedicated transplant care units, ensuring comprehensive evaluation, safe surgery, and personalised post-transplant care for every patient.

Procedure At a Glance

Why is Heart Transplant Surgery Performed?

The reason a patient undergoes a heart transplant can be due to:

• End-stage heart failure where the heart is no longer able to pump blood effectively
• Severe coronary artery disease leading to irreversible heart damage
• Cardiomyopathy (weakening of the heart muscle) that does not respond to treatment
• Congenital heart defects that cannot be corrected with other surgeries
• Life-threatening arrhythmias that are not controlled with medications or procedures
• Previous heart surgeries that have failed to restore normal heart function

Types of Heart Transplant Procedure

Heart transplant procedures are not one-size-fits-all. The type of surgery recommended depends on the patient’s condition, overall health, and how well their body can handle the transplant. Surgeons carefully evaluate these factors to choose the most suitable approach for better outcomes and long-term survival.

Orthotopic Heart Transplant (Standard Procedure)

This is the most common type of heart transplant surgery. In this procedure, the patient’s diseased heart is removed and replaced with a healthy donor heart. The new heart is then connected to the major blood vessels, allowing it to take over the function of pumping blood throughout the body.

Heterotopic Heart Transplant (Piggyback Transplant)

In this less common procedure, the patient’s original heart is not removed. Instead, the donor heart is attached alongside it, creating a “double heart” setup. This approach may be considered in complex cases where the patient’s body may not fully support a complete replacement or when additional support is needed.

How is a Donor Heart Selected for Heart Transplant?

Selecting a suitable donor heart is a highly precise and carefully regulated process. Medical teams evaluate multiple factors to ensure the donor heart is compatible with the recipient, reducing the risk of rejection and improving the chances of a successful transplant.

• Blood Type Matching: The donor and recipient must have compatible blood types to prevent immediate rejection. This is one of the most critical factors considered before proceeding with the transplant.
• Body Size Compatibility: The size of the donor heart should closely match the recipient’s body size. A well-matched heart ensures proper blood flow and efficient functioning after transplantation.
• Tissue Matching and Crossmatch Tests: Special tests are performed to check how the recipient’s immune system may react to the donor heart. A negative crossmatch indicates a lower risk of rejection and better acceptance of the new organ.
• Waiting List and Allocation Process: Patients are placed on a transplant waiting list based on urgency, medical condition, and availability of a suitable donor. Organs are allocated through a regulated system to ensure fairness and priority for those in critical need.

What are the Conditions Treated with Heart Transplant?

A heart transplant is considered when the heart is severely damaged and no longer responds to medications or other treatments. It is typically recommended for advanced cardiac conditions where replacing the heart offers the best chance of survival and improved quality of life.

• End-stage Heart Failure: This occurs when the heart can no longer pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. Symptoms become severe and persistent despite maximum medical treatment.
• Cardiomyopathy: In this condition, the heart muscle becomes weak or enlarged, affecting its ability to pump efficiently. When it progresses to an advanced stage, a transplant may be required.
• Severe Coronary Artery Disease: Blocked or narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the heart, causing irreversible damage over time. In critical cases where other treatments fail, transplantation may be considered.
• Congenital Heart Defects: Some individuals are born with structural heart abnormalities that cannot be fully corrected with surgery. A transplant may be the only long-term solution in complex cases.
• Heart Valve Disease Leading to Heart Failure: Damaged or malfunctioning heart valves can strain the heart and eventually lead to heart failure. When valve repair or replacement is not sufficient, a transplant may be needed.

Surgical Approaches for Heart Transplant

Heart transplant surgery is a highly coordinated and carefully executed procedure performed by a specialised team of cardiac experts. From the moment the patient enters the operation theatre to the final closure, every step is planned to ensure safety, precision, and the best possible outcome.

• Open Heart Transplant Surgery: The patient is brought into the operation theatre and placed under general anaesthesia by a cardiac anaesthesiologist. A team typically includes cardiac surgeons, assistant surgeons, perfusionists, nurses, and technicians. The lead cardiac surgeon makes a vertical incision along the chest (through the breastbone) to access the heart. The patient is then connected to a heart-lung machine, which temporarily takes over the function of the heart and lungs. The diseased heart is carefully removed, leaving parts of the atria intact to attach the donor heart.
• Donor Heart Implantation Procedure: The healthy donor heart is positioned and surgically connected to the patient’s major blood vessels. Once secured, the heart is gradually stimulated to start beating, and the patient is slowly taken off the heart-lung machine. The surgical team ensures proper blood flow and heart function before closing the chest. The breastbone is wired back together, and the incision is closed with sutures. The patient is then shifted out of the operation theatre to the intensive care unit for close monitoring and recovery.

Heart Transplant in Special Cases

Heart transplantation may require additional considerations in certain patient groups. Factors like age, underlying conditions, and overall health play a crucial role in determining eligibility, surgical approach, and post-transplant outcomes.

• Heart Transplant in Children (Paediatric Cases): In children, heart transplants are usually performed for congenital heart defects or severe cardiomyopathies. Specialised paediatric cardiac teams carefully match donor hearts and provide long-term monitoring to support growth and development.
• Heart Transplant in Elderly Patients: For older patients, doctors assess overall health, fitness, and the presence of other medical conditions before recommending a transplant. The focus is on ensuring that the patient can tolerate surgery and benefit from improved quality of life.
• Heart Transplant in Patients with Multiple Organ Failure: In complex cases where other organs are also affected, a detailed evaluation is required to determine transplant suitability. Sometimes, combined organ transplants or staged treatments may be considered to improve survival outcomes.

How Can I Prepare For Heart Transplant Surgery?

Patients often feel anxious about preparing for heart transplant surgery. Artemis doctors provide complete guidance on how to prepare your body and mind for surgery day. We ensure that you feel confident and ready.

Days Before Surgery

• Complete required tests (blood work, imaging, heart evaluation)
• Share full medical history, medications, and allergies
• Stop or adjust certain medicines as advised
• Maintain a healthy, balanced diet
• Stay hydrated unless told otherwise
• Avoid infections (limit crowds, wear a mask if needed)
• Inform your doctor about any fever, cold, or new symptoms
• Arrange a caregiver for support before and after surgery
• Pack essentials for hospital stay (documents, medications, basics)
• Get adequate rest and manage stress
• Avoid alcohol and smoking
• Follow fasting instructions before surgery (if scheduled)

On the Day of Surgery

• Take only prescribed medications with a sip of water (if allowed)
• Reach the hospital on time or stay ready if already admitted
• Carry all important documents and reports
• Remove jewelry, makeup, nail polish, and contact lenses
• Wear comfortable, loose clothing
• Inform the medical team about any last-minute symptoms (fever, cough, etc.)
• Meet the surgical and anesthesia team for final checks
• Sign consent forms (if not already done)
• Stay calm and mentally prepared for the procedure
• Your vital signs will be checked before shifting to the operating room

How is Heart Transplant Surgery Performed?

Heart transplant surgery is a complex, multi-step procedure carried out with precision by a specialised cardiac team. Each stage is carefully monitored to ensure the safe removal of the diseased heart and successful implantation of the donor heart.

• Anaesthesia and Preparation: The patient is given general anaesthesia and prepared for surgery in the operation theatre. Vital signs are continuously monitored throughout the procedure.
• Chest Incision and Access: The surgeon makes an incision along the breastbone to open the chest and gain access to the heart. This provides a clear surgical field for the procedure.
• Heart-Lung Machine Support: The patient is connected to a heart-lung (bypass) machine, which takes over the function of circulating blood and oxygen during surgery.
• Removal of Diseased Heart: The damaged heart is carefully removed, while preserving key structures needed to attach the donor heart.
• Donor Heart Implantation: The healthy donor heart is placed and connected to the major blood vessels. The surgical team ensures proper alignment and secure attachment.
• Restarting the Heart: The donor heart is stimulated to begin beating, and blood flow is gradually restored. The patient is slowly weaned off the heart-lung machine.
• Closure of the Chest: Once stable heart function is confirmed, the breastbone is closed using surgical wires, and the incision is stitched. The patient is then moved to the intensive care unit for recovery and monitoring.

What to Expect After Heart Transplant Surgery?

Recovery after a heart transplant happens in phases, with close monitoring and gradual return to daily life.

• Immediately After Surgery: The patient is shifted to the ICU for continuous monitoring. Ventilator support, medications, and vital checks help stabilise the new heart.
• First Few Days: The care team closely observes heart function, signs of infection, and early rejection. Gradual movement and basic activity are started.
• Long-term Prognosis: With proper care, medications, and lifestyle changes, many patients return to a near-normal life. Regular follow-ups are essential for long-term success.
• Normal vs When to Call a Doctor: Mild fatigue and discomfort are common during recovery. Seek medical help if there is fever, breathlessness, swelling, or unusual symptoms.

What are the Advantages of Heart Transplant Surgery?

• Improves survival in end-stage heart disease
• Restores better heart function and energy levels
• Enhances quality of life and daily activity
• Reduces symptoms like breathlessness and fatigue

Heart Transplant vs Artificial Heart – What’s the Difference?

Both options support patients with severe heart failure, but their use depends on the condition and availability.

• When Transplant is Preferred: A heart transplant is the best option when a suitable donor heart is available and the patient is eligible. It offers a more permanent solution.
• Role of Total Artificial Heart: An artificial heart may be used temporarily to support patients while waiting for a donor or in cases where transplant is not immediately possible.

Risks and Complications of Heart Transplant

Like any major surgery, heart transplant carries certain risks, but they are carefully managed by experts.

Common Surgical Risks

These include infection, bleeding, blood clots, and risk of organ rejection. Long-term use of medications may also have side effects.

How Artemis Hospitals Minimises Surgical Risks?

A multidisciplinary team, advanced surgical techniques, strict infection control, and continuous monitoring help reduce complications and improve outcomes.

What are the Recovery Tips After Heart Transplant Surgery?

Proper recovery care plays a key role in long-term success after transplant.

• Hospital Stay and Monitoring: Patients stay in the hospital for close observation until the heart function stabilises. Regular tests are done to track recovery.
• Pain Management and Wound Care: Medications help manage pain, while proper wound care prevents infection and supports healing.
• Lifelong Medications and Follow-ups: Immunosuppressant medications are required to prevent rejection. Regular follow-ups ensure early detection of any issues.
• Lifestyle Changes and Rehabilitation: A healthy diet, regular exercise, and cardiac rehabilitation help improve strength and overall well-being.

Why Choose Artemis Hospital for Heart Transplant Surgery Near You?

Artemis Hospitals, Gurugram is equipped with advanced cardiac infrastructure and a highly experienced team of specialists. The hospital offers comprehensive transplant care, from evaluation and surgery to rehabilitation and long-term follow-up, ensuring personalised treatment for every patient.

Book a Consultation for Heart Transplant Surgery at Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon

Appointment Booking Process

You can book an appointment by contacting Artemis Hospitals directly or through their official channels. The care team will guide you through consultation and evaluation steps.

Second Opinion

Patients can also seek a second opinion from experienced cardiac specialists at Artemis Hospitals for better clarity and confidence in treatment decisions.

Article byDr. S N Khanna
Chairperson, Adult Cardiac Surgery & Heart - Lung Transplant
Artemis Hospitals