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D G Healy

Publications and source records attributed to D G Healy.

22 records · Page 2Linked to original sources
PubMedDate not supplied

The first 20 years of heart transplantation in Ireland.

BACKGROUND: The first Irish heart transplant was performed on the 10th of September 1985. Over the next 20 years, 229 transplants were performed in 228 recipients. AIMS: To evaluate the success of the first generation of cardiac transplantation in Ireland. METHODS: Analysis of clinical outcomes and survival statistics for patients undergoing heart transplantation in Ireland and comparison with international standards. RESULTS: There has been a steady improvement in transplant outcome over this time and survival figures for recipients between 2000 and 2004 show a hospital, 1-year and 5-year survival rate of 85.7%, 84.1% and 76.8% respectively. Thirty-eight of the 99 heart transplants performed between 1985 and 1994 are still alive more than 10 years later and the longest survivor is now 19 years post transplantation. CONCLUSIONS: The results compare favourably with international figures. Heart transplantation offers excellent longterm survival and quality of life but remains challenged by a shortage of suitable donor organs.

Adolescent↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Trends in RTA related spinal injuries: the post penalty points era.

BACKGROUND: On October 31st 2002 a system of cumulative penalty points for road traffic offences was introduced. Early evidence suggested a reduction in road traffic accident (RTA) related morbidity. AIMS: To evaluate the persistence of the initial reduction in RTA related spinal injuries following penalty points introduction. METHODS: Retrospective review of all acute spinal trauma admissions to the NSIU between November 1st 1998 and October 31st 2004 (n = 966). Patient demographics and injury aetiology were assessed. Follow-up questionnaires evaluated RTA circumstances. RESULTS: RTA related spinal injuries accounted for 39.3% of NSIU admissions. These injuries were significantly more common in males aged 16-24, drivers (70.8%), on routine journeys (77.5%) and rural roads (48.8%). The highest proportion of accidents occurred during weekends (64.3% from Fri-Sun) and from midnight to 6am (29.3%). CONCLUSIONS: The initial reduction in RTA related spinal injuries has not been sustained. Young male drivers are the greatest at risk group.

Accidents, Traffic↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Heart transplant candidates: factors influencing waiting list mortality.

Cardiac transplantation is a successful treatment for end-stage heart disease. However the number of potential candidates is significantly greater then number of suitable organ donors. We reviewed the characteristics of new transplant candidates presenting for assessment for cardiac transplantation to the Irish Heart & Lung Transplant programme over a one year period. Of 44 patients referred for assessment, 24 (54.5%) were listed for cardiac transplantation. Six have died while awaiting transplantation, seven have been transplanted and eleven remain on the active transplant list. The six month survival rate on the transplant waiting list is 74%. Although the Irish system of organ donation has traditionally provided high organ donation rates in comparison with other countries, the demand for suitable heart donors exceeds supply. Newer methods of promoting and facilitating organ donation may prove beneficial in improving the number of donations and addressing the long waiting time for cardiac transplantation.

Adult↗