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Domenico, 2, Dies After Transplant With Suspected Transport‑Damaged Heart

Judicial probes target possible mishandling of the donor heart, including the decision to implant a damaged organ.

Overview

  • Hospital Monaldi confirmed the two‑and‑a‑half‑year‑old died Saturday after a sudden, irreversible deterioration while in intensive care.
  • Days earlier, a national team determined he was not a candidate for a second transplant, and his family activated palliative care after prolonged support with ECMO.
  • Preliminary findings indicate the heart was thermally damaged during transport from Bolzano after contact with dry ice inside a plastic container, with reports saying it was implanted despite visible injury.
  • Prosecutors in Bolzano and Naples are investigating transport procedures and clinical decisions, with media citing inquiries involving six medical professionals; some reports say Naples has opened a possible manslaughter probe and ordered an autopsy.
  • Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni issued condolences and called for full clarity, while the family plans a foundation in Domenico’s name to support victims of alleged medical negligence and families awaiting transplants.