Survival trends in heart transplant patients supported on ECMO and IABP: A 10-year UNOS database analysis

Abstract

The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) heart transplant allocation policy was changed in 2018. This study examines the impact of the change in UNOS heart transplant allocation policy on the use of temporary mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices and post-transplant survival.

The analysis included a total of 26,481 patients listed and transplanted between January 2013 and June 2022. The results showed a decrease in waiting time for transplant after the policy change, indicating a successful reduction in waitlist time for high-priority status patients. However, the length of hospital stays from transplant to discharge increased following the policy change. The study also found an increase in the frequency of ECMO and IABP use both at the time of listing and at the time of transplant following the policy change.

Cumulative patient and graft survival at 1000 days decreased following the policy change (86.1 per cent versus 83.7 per cent at 1000 days, p = 0.002). However, the survival curves showed similar survival trends in the first 2 years, with late divergence in survival occurring after 2 years.

In conclusion the latest UNOS heart transplant allocation policy change led to a decrease in waiting times and an increase in the use of temporary MCS devices. There was a decrease in cummulative survival at 1000 days following the policy change.