Abstract

Thoracic transplantation, encompassing heart and lung transplants, has evolved into a transformative intervention for individuals grappling with end-stage heart or lung diseases. This article provides an overview of the historical development and current status of heart and lung transplantation procedures, highlighting key surgical techniques, advancements in donor-recipient matching, and the critical role of immunosuppressive medications in post-transplant care. Despite the successes, challenges such as organ shortages and the risk of rejection persist. On-going research explores innovative solutions, including xenotransplantation and bioengineered organs. The article concludes by emphasizing the collaborative efforts needed to address these challenges and enhance the accessibility and success of thoracic transplantation, offering a beacon of hope for those in need of life-saving interventions.