Heart

Heart transplants in children are required when they have severe heart failure or serious heart conditions that cannot be treated effectively through other means. The most common reasons for heart transplants in kids include congenital heart defects, which are structural abnormalities present from birth that affect the heart's function. These defects can range from conditions like hypoplastic left heart syndrome to complex abnormalities of the heart chambers, valves, or major blood vessels. Dilated cardiomyopathy is another frequent cause, where the heart muscle becomes weak and enlarged, hindering its ability to pump blood efficiently. Certain viral infections can cause severe damage to the heart muscle, leading to heart failure. Genetic conditions affecting the heart's structure or electrical system, restrictive cardiomyopathy, and inoperable or life-threatening cardiac tumors are also reasons why children may require a heart transplant. The decision for a heart transplant is carefully considered, taking into account the severity of the condition and the child's overall health.