A team of medical experts has ruled out a second heart transplant for a 2-year-old boy in Naples, Italy, who received a damaged organ in a previous procedure last December and has remained hospitalized in intensive care. “The child’s conditions are not compatible with a new transplant,” the hospital stated following an extensive consultation on Wednesday, February 17, 2026.
A compatible heart became available Tuesday evening, February 17, with other patients awaiting a transplant, according to hospital officials. Earlier Wednesday, the Azienda dei Colli di Napoli hospital stated a decision regarding a potential transplant would be made “only following an evaluation by the team of experts.” The family’s lawyer explained that, according to a doctor’s assessment, “there is a 10% chance of the operation being successful.” The lawyer added that the boy’s mother was prepared to proceed with the surgery even with such low odds.
The case has drawn significant attention in recent days, as the initial transplant failed since the donor heart arrived severely damaged.
Expert Review of the Case
To thoroughly assess the situation, the hospital convened a panel of specialists. Two experts from the Bambino Gesù hospital in Rome, along with three colleagues from Padua, Bergamo and Turin, arrived in Naples Wednesday for the consultation. The medical team, including doctors from Monaldi Hospital, evaluated the boy’s condition to determine if a second transplant was viable and if therapies could mitigate existing complications. The expert committee ultimately advised against another heart transplant.
“The consultation between experts from the leading healthcare facilities in the country specializing in pediatric heart transplantation has concluded,” the Azienda Ospedaliera dei Colli di Napoli said in a statement. “This collaborative discussion allowed for a shared and comprehensive evaluation as possible. Based on assessments at the patient’s bedside and the latest diagnostic tests, it was determined that the child’s condition is not compatible with a new transplant.” Hospital leadership has informed the National Transplant Center and expressed its sincere support for the family during this tricky time.
Vedi anche
Naples Boy’s Heart Transplant Case: What We Know
Details of the Damaged Heart and Ongoing Investigation
Hope briefly resurfaced Tuesday evening when the boy’s mother was contacted by hospital staff at Monaldi Hospital, informing her that a new heart was available. In the previous, unsuccessful transplant, the donor heart was transported in an older-style container, despite the hospital having access to more modern, temperature-controlled boxes. This decision was reportedly made because staff were not adequately trained to use the newer equipment. The use of the older container is considered a deviation from established guidelines, as revealed by an investigation by Naples prosecutors, who are currently investigating six individuals for alleged negligence.
Health Ministry Inspectors at Monaldi Hospital
Inspectors from the Italian Ministry of Health arrived at Monaldi Hospital Wednesday to collect all documents related to the case. After reviewing the documentation in Naples, they will travel to Bolzano to gather additional materials.
Approfondimento
Why the Naples Case Shouldn’t Discourage Organ Donation
