Core Viewpoint - The successful completion of China's first combined heart-liver transplant surgery at Huazhong University of Science and Technology's Tongji Medical College Union Hospital marks a significant advancement in the field of organ transplantation, overcoming complex medical challenges [1][2]. Group 1: Medical Achievement - The combined heart-liver transplant surgery is referred to as the "Mount Everest" of organ transplantation, highlighting its complexity and significance in medical science [1]. - The patient, Li Lei, suffered from severe congenital heart disease and was diagnosed with end-stage heart failure, severe liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer, necessitating simultaneous organ transplantation [1]. - The surgical team faced significant challenges, including the interdependence of heart and liver functions and severe tissue adhesions from previous surgeries [1]. Group 2: Surgical Process - The surgical procedure involved a meticulous 143-minute operation to remove the diseased heart and successfully implant the donor heart, followed by the removal of the diseased liver and implantation of the donor liver [2]. - A multidisciplinary team of over 20 experts collaborated to navigate various critical phases of the surgery, including infection control, rejection management, respiratory support, and nutritional care [2]. Group 3: Institutional Performance - As of now, the Union Hospital has completed three combined heart-liver transplants, accounting for one-third of the total cases in the country [2]. - The hospital has performed over 1,200 heart transplants in the past 30 years, achieving a five-year survival rate of 89.1% [2].
协和医院成功实施“珠峰级”难度手术 20余位专家接力为上海小伙换“心肝”
Chang Jiang Ri Bao·2025-08-07 01:24