Prospective Analysis of HLA Immunogenicity of Cryopreserved Valved Allografts Used in Pediatric Heart Surgery

Abstract

Cryopreserved valved allografts in children induce a marked HLA alloantibody response that increases to broad panel reactivity within 3 months after surgery. This HLA sensitization has potential not only for causing deleterious effects on allograft function but also for limiting the future opportunity of heart transplantation in patients who receive cryopreserved valved allografts.