Chronic cardiovascular disease or a viral infection can weaken the heart, making it unable to function adequately. If this occurs, a heart transplant may be needed to save a patient’s life. During a heart transplant, a failing, diseased heart is replaced with a healthier, donor heart. Heart transplant is a treatment that's usually reserved for people who have tried medications or other surgeries, but their conditions haven't improved sufficiently.

Tampa General Medical Group offers evaluation for heart transplantation as a treatment for heart failure and other conditions. TGMG’s cardiologists are among the most experienced in the region when it comes to heart transplants. These physicians, along with a team of experienced specialists work with you and your family to provide personal support for all the medical and emotional needs that can accompany a heart transplant. The heart transplant program is based at Tampa General Hospital. TGH is the busiest transplant program in the state and one of the busiest in the nation.

TGH’s transplant program is certified by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), which administers the nation’s policies on organ transplantation and procurement. Once patients are accepted into our transplant program, the wait for a new heart begins. TGMG cardiologists manage the underlying disease during this waiting period. When a donor organ becomes available, several factors are considered in identifying the best recipient for that organ. These factors include such characteristics as:

• Blood Type

• Compatibility In Size And Age

• Urgency Of Need

• Length Of Time On The Waiting List

Some patients are implanted with a mechanical circulatory support device while waiting for a donor heart. The device helps the heart to pump and allows it to rest until a healthy heart can be transplanted. Patients waiting for a heart transplant will be evaluated to determine whether a mechanical device is suitable. Get detailed information regarding survival rates.