Long-term results of pediatric heart transplantation.

(22.1%), infection in 11 (10.6%), gingival hyperplasia in 28 (26.9%), hypertention in 22 (21.1%), coronary artery disease (CAD) in 12 (12.5%), graft failure in 11(10.5%), and malignancy in 2 (1.9%). Late mortality occurred in 11 (10.6%) patients. Causes of death were sudden death in 2 (1.9%), CAD in 3 (2.8%), graft failure in 1 (1.0%), acute rejection in 4 (4.6%), and infection in 1 (1.0%). Actuarial survival rates in pediatrics at 1, 5, 10 years were 82%, 80%, and 78%, respectively. On the other hand, actuarial survival rates in adults at 1, 5, 10 years were 78%, 75%, 59%, respectively. Conclusion: Heart transplantation for pediatrics is an effective therapy with acceptable mor- bidity and mortality. The long-term survival results in pediatrics are comparable to those of adult heart transplantations. However, the actuarial survival rate in pediatrics after 10 years is significantly better than in adults' cases. Renal function in pediatric heart transplantation re- cipients treated with cyclosporine remains stable during long-term follow-up. (Ann Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2005; 11: 386-90)