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Spring Survey 2012 Results

Advances in Heart Transplant

Recorded on 10/21/2009
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  • Oregon Health & Science University

PROGRAM DETAILS:

A heart transplant can be life-extending and certainly lifesaving. Since 1985, Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) has performed more than 500 heart transplants. Twelve of these patients have passed the 20-year survival mark, joining the fraternity of the world's longest surviving heart transplant recipients. In this program, you’ll hear from Dr. Antony Kim and his patient, Robb, as they discuss the advances and successes in heart transplant.

Robb McKeregan, a 37-year-old from Hillsboro, Oregon, and transplant recipient shares his story with listeners. Robb has a genetic heart condition and was overweight when he was told that he had 90 days to live. Doctors implanted a ventricular assist device (VAD) to bridge the gap to transplant while Robb began his weight loss journey – he lost 128 pounds in 8 months through diet and exercise. He received his heart transplant in May of 2009 and continues to lead a healthy life today.

Dr. Antony Kim, director of Heart Failure and Transplantation at OHSU, talks about Robb’s specific condition and then goes on to discuss when advanced therapy, like heart transplant, is appropriate for those with heart conditions and the necessary evaluations. Dr. Kim also touches on treatments that can improve, and extend, life for those waiting for transplants. He shares a wealth of information about heart transplant that includes a discussion of blood type, pre-operative therapies and requirements, and takes you through the actual surgery and recovery. Dr. Kim also details the improvements and refinements in transplant and his hopes for the future. Listen to this program to learn more about advances in heart transplant.

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EXPERTS & GUESTS:
Antony Kim, M.D. Antony Kim, M.D.
Associate Professor of Medicine & Director of Heart Failure and Transplantation, Oregon Health & Science University
Dr. Kim is Assistant Professor of Medicine and Director of Heart Failure and Transplantation at Oregon Health and Science University. Dr. Kim received his undergraduate education at the University of Chicago where he majored in English Literature and Biological Sciences. He received his medical degree from the Louisiana State University in New Orleans and completed his residency in Internal Medicine... more >

Robb McKeregan,
Heart Transplant Recipient
Robb McKereghan is 37 years old and a recent heart transplant recipient. Several years ago Robb was diagnosed with a genetic heart condition, Dilated Idiopathic Cardiomyopathy, a condition that his father also had. In 2008, Robb was told that he had 90 days to live unless he had a ventricular assist device (VAD) implanted so that his heart could function... more >

TRANSCRIPT:

  1. Introduction LISTEN
  2. Robb’s Story LISTEN
  3. Genetic Connections with Heart Failure LISTEN
  4. Therapy Options While Waiting for Transplant LISTEN
  5. Evaluation Process for Determining Transplant Candidates LISTEN
  6. Wait List Priority Criteria LISTEN
  7. Cardiac Replacement Surgery and Postoperative Therapy LISTEN
  8. The Importance of Organ Donation LISTEN
  9. Closing Comments LISTEN

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