Final answer:
In heart transplantation, the entire heart of a brain-dead individual is typically used. Success depends on blood compatibility, waitlist time, and donor availability. Demand for hearts exceeds the supply.
Step-by-step explanation:
In order for a transplant to be successful, a certain percentage of a person's organs must be used and kept alive. Specifically, in the case of heart transplantation, the entire heart of a brain-dead individual is typically used. Hearts for transplant must be utilized within four hours of the death of the donor.
The success of a heart transplant depends on factors such as blood ABO compatibility between the donor and recipient, the period of time on the waitlist, and the availability of suitable donors. It is important to match the donor and recipient in terms of blood compatibility to avoid immune system rejection.
Approximately 2,400 heart transplants are performed each year in the United States, but the demand for hearts far exceeds the supply. Many patients die while waiting for a suitable heart to become available.