What does the orthotopic heart transplantation procedure involve?

Orthotopic heart transplantation is a surgical procedure where the patient's diseased heart is removed and replaced with a healthy donor heart. In China, the bicaval anastomosis technique is commonly used, which involves connecting the donor heart's superior and inferior vena cavae directly to the recipient's corresponding vessels. This method preserves the shape and function of the right atrium, reducing the risk of arrhythmias and improving long-term outcomes. The surgery typically takes 4-6 hours and requires immediate post-operative care in an intensive care unit.