A heart transplant isn't the right treatment for everyone, however. Certain factors may mean you're not a good candidate for a heart transplant. While each case is considered individually by a transplant center, a heart transplant may not be appropriate if you:
- Are age 65 or older
- Have another medical condition that could shorten your life, regardless of receiving a donor heart
- Have serious blockages in the arteries in your arms or legs (peripheral artery disease)
- Have a personal medical history of cancer
- Are unwilling or unable to make lifestyle changes necessary to keep your donor heart healthy, such as not drinking alcohol or not smoking
