The number of pediatric patients in need of heart transplants is steadily rising, and the waiting time for these life-saving procedures is growing longer. According to doctors at the Children's Cardio Center, the primary reason is a critical shortage of donors. It has been 26 years since the first successful heart transplant in a child was performed in Slovakia.
Majka and Stelka, both born with congenital heart defects, required heart transplants to survive. "You can never truly prepare for such an operation—it’s an emotionally overwhelming experience," shared Katarína Dušková, the mother of one of the young patients. "As a parent, the emotional toll is immense. After all, it’s your child’s life teetering on the edge."
This year, the Children's Cardio Center (DKC) is commemorating the 26th anniversary of its first pediatric heart transplant. To date, the center’s doctors have performed 21 transplants, with half of them completed in just the last six years. "Each year, the need for transplants is estimated at three to four procedures," said Dr. Matej Nosáľ, head of the DKC Cardiac surgery Department. "Remarkably, all 21 of our transplants have relied on Slovak donors."
Dr. Nosáľ acknowledged the immense bravery of donor families: "These families, despite their grief, find the strength to make such a generous decision." Katarína Dušková echoed this sentiment: "I deeply admire the donors’ parents—they managed to rise above their pain to save another child’s life."
Dr. Martin Záhorec, head of DKC’s Cardiology Department and Intensive Care Unit, also expressed his gratitude: "We owe an enormous debt of thanks and admiration to the families of organ donors, especially for children’s organs. Their generosity brings hope and a chance at life for our patients."
Slovak doctors achieved a significant milestone in 2008, becoming the first in Central Europe to implant an artificial heart in a child. "Artificial hearts and mechanical supports are invaluable," said Dr. Záhorec. "They help us stabilize patients and buy time while waiting for a suitable donor."
Advancements in technology are also aiding adult heart transplantation. "In the last decade, there’s been significant progress in mechanical heart support systems, particularly fully implantable devices," Dr. Nosáľ added.
The ultimate goal of the pediatric transplant program is to enable children to live a normal, fulfilling life alongside their peers after the procedure.
Source: STVR
