"Groundbreaking Dual-Organ Transplant Saves Patient's Life"

In a historic first, a heart transplant recipient in Washington state also had her healthy liver swapped out for a second-hand liver from an organ donor due to her high antibodies against organ donors. The decision was made based on the near-certain likelihood that her immune system would reject any foreign tissue. The procedure, known as a heart-after-liver transplant (HALT), has shown favorable long-term outcomes in patients with end-stage heart and liver disease. The donated liver may help reduce the chances of heart rejection, possibly due to its ability to withstand antibody attacks. The patient is doing well, but the future of the procedure remains uncertain as compatible organs are in short supply.