The National Heart Centre Singapore (NHCS) celebrated the 35th anniversary of its Heart Transplant Programme on 6 September 2025, highlighting its significant contributions to advanced heart failure management. The event, held at JEN Singapore Tanglin, was attended by approximately 200 guests, including heart transplant recipients and healthcare professionals. Member of Parliament for Tanjong Pagar GRC, Foo Cexiang, was among the distinguished attendees.
Since its inception in 1990, NHCS has performed 103 heart transplants and 156 Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) implantations. The programme has achieved several regional firsts, such as Asia’s first combined heart-liver transplant and Southeast Asia’s youngest LVAD recipient at 13 years old. Assistant Professor Louis Teo, Director of the Heart Failure Programme, noted the programme’s evolution from a groundbreaking initiative to a comprehensive care management system, offering patients multiple options for advanced heart failure.
NHCS continues to innovate with advancements in mechanical heart pumps and patient care. Recent developments include minimally invasive LVAD implantation techniques and the first HeartMate 3 BiVentricular Assist Device implantation. The inclusion of Hepatitis B and HIV patients on the transplant waiting list has also expanded opportunities for successful transplants.
Looking ahead, NHCS is exploring non-invasive monitoring methods and advanced organ preservation technologies to enhance heart transplantation outcomes. Additionally, the next generation of VADs promises greater patient independence through wireless technology and AI-powered monitoring systems.
Professor Yeo Khung Keong, CEO of NHCS, emphasised the centre’s commitment to advancing heart failure care through innovation and research, aiming to expand access to life-saving therapies and develop next-generation treatments.
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