What are the risks and recovery expectations for this procedure?

Risks include infection, bleeding, rejection of the donor heart, and complications from immunosuppressive medications, such as kidney damage or increased infection risk. Recovery involves a hospital stay of 30-45 days, during which patients are monitored for rejection and infections. Full recovery typically takes 6-12 months, with gradual return to normal activities. Lifelong immunosuppression is required, and regular follow-up with biopsies and imaging is essential to monitor heart function and detect rejection early.