The Australian and New Zealand Cardiothoracic Organ Transplant Registry: First Report 1984-1992

This initial report of the Australian and New Zealand Cardiothoracic Organ Transplant Registry summarises the results of all cardiothoracic transplants performed between February 1984 and April 1992. A total of 549 first cardiothoracic transplant procedures and six cardiac retransplant operations were performed in five transplant units throughout Australia and New Zealand. There were 466 orthotopic cardiac transplants and one heterotopic transplant with overall survival 86% at one year and 80% at five years. Two of six patients who underwent cardiac retransplantation are alive. Fifty-three heart-lung transplants were performed with 72% one year and 42% five year survival. Twenty-nine single lung transplant procedures were undertaken, with actuarial survival 72% at 12 months. Factors influencing waiting period and post-transplant survival for each type of procedure are detailed. The relative lack of donors compared with recipient demand has produced increased waiting times for every type of cardiothoracic organ transplant.