Low affinity FC receptor (CD32) mediated platelet aggregation/activation in vitro by antithymocyteglobuline: a possible explanation for induction therapy mediated platelet depletion in vivo

There were two 30 day deaths each on day 7, 1 following an “uneventful” cardiac biopsy and 1 from sepsis and multiorgan failure. There were no deaths from primary allograft failure despite the lower D/R Wt, significantly higher TPG’s and the utility of older donors compared to the OHTx group. Four year actuarial survival was 50% for HHTx (3 late deaths in the HHTx from LPD, respiratory failure and sternal wound sepsis) compared to 70% for OHTx. Conclusions: HHTx is a viable option for selected higher risk waiting list patients who might otherwise be denied transplantation. The successful use of often rejected smaller or “marginal” cardiac allografts expands the functional donor pool.