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Unprecedented Medical Error in Italy: Damaged Heart Transplanted into 2-Year-Old - Boy in Critical Condition

Published February 12, 2026, 14:21
Unprecedented Medical Error in Italy: Damaged Heart Transplanted into 2-Year-Old - Boy in Critical Condition

A serious medical error in Italy has triggered widespread outrage, as a damaged heart was transplanted into a 2-year-old boy. During the transport of the organ from Bolzano to Naples, dry ice was used instead of regular ice, causing extensive damage to the heart. Despite the massive error, the transplant was performed normally, with the boy being placed in an induced coma and in critical condition. His mother is pleading for an immediate search for a new graft, as the child's condition is deteriorating, with serious problems in the liver as well. Two investigations are already underway to determine how the error occurred and why the damaged heart was used. Two doctors from the hospital have been temporarily suspended from their duties. The hospital, formerly known for its successful transplants, is at the center of criticism.