Italian toddler in critical condition after transplanted heart damaged

Officials say a heart transplanted into a toddler in December was damaged during transport and the child is now in a stable but critical condition; prosecutors have opened an investigation and a team of specialist doctors will meet to decide on suitability for a further transplant.

A young child in Italy remains in a stable but critical condition after receiving a heart transplant in December that is reported to have been damaged during transport. Authorities say the organ was carried from Bolzano to Naples and was placed in an unsuitable container, reportedly in direct contact with dry ice and without a thermometer to monitor temperature. Prosecutors have opened an investigation and several medical staff are formally under inquiry. A panel of specialist doctors from hospitals around Italy is scheduled to meet to assess whether the child is eligible for another transplant. Known details: - The donor heart was transported from Bolzano to Naples and is reported to have suffered severe cold-related damage during transit. - The family's lawyer said the heart arrived "burned by frostbite," according to media reports. - The transplant was performed in December and the child was placed on life support shortly afterwards; the hospital describes his condition as "stable but critical." - Prosecutors have opened an investigation and six medical professionals are under formal investigation. - A team of specialist doctors will convene to decide if the child is suitable for a further transplant. Summary: Officials report that a transported donor heart was damaged during transfer and the resulting transplant left the toddler in a stable but critical condition. An official investigation is under way and a panel of specialists will next determine whether a new transplant is possible.