Children's Hospital Colorado Achieves Milestone with First Pediatric Heart and Liver Dual Organ Transplant

Milestone in Pediatric Medicine

Children’s Hospital Colorado has reached an impressive milestone by performing the area's first-ever pediatric heart and liver dual organ transplant. This groundbreaking procedure took place on December 19, 2025, and involved a dedicated team of experts across 25 different multidisciplinary care areas, showcasing a remarkable collaboration for a complex medical challenge.

Only a handful of such transplants have been completed in the U.S., with just 38 pediatric heart and liver transplants reported prior to this. This operation is a testament to the hospital's commitment to pioneering pediatric healthcare. According to Dr. Megan Adams, the surgical director of the Pediatric Liver Transplant and Kidney Transplant Programs, this achievement not only reflects the team's dedication but also opens new doors for patients requiring intricate organ transplants to combat life-threatening conditions.

Eleven-year-old Gracie Greenlaw was the recipient of this life-saving transplant. Born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), Gracie faced severe challenges, having only one functional chamber in her heart. Early in her life, she underwent several surgeries, including the Norwood, Glenn, and Fontan procedures. While these surgeries helped her heart function better, they posed long-term risks, leading to potential liver complications.

In response to the need for more comprehensive care, Children's Colorado launched the Fontan Multidisciplinary Clinic in 2016. This initiative aimed to support patients with various single ventricle heart conditions like HLHS, ensuring a holistic approach to their health, particularly focusing on the potential long-term effects on related organs. The care team, which included cardiologist Dr. Kathleen Simpson and hepatologist Dr. Dania Brigham, closely monitored Gracie’s condition and provided integrated care.

However, as Gracie grew, her health began to decline, notably developing plastic bronchitis, which causes blockages in her airways, and liver failure. By April 2025, her medical team decided that a dual organ transplant would be her best chance for a healthier future, placing her on the transplant waitlist.

After just a month, a matching heart and liver became available for her, made possible through organ donation. The surgery was meticulously coordinated, with Dr. Matthew Stone, the surgical director of the Pediatric Heart Transplant Program, and Dr. Emily Downs performing the heart transplant first. This operation spanned approximately nine hours. Meanwhile, the donor liver was preserved using a specialized pump that simulates natural liver function, allowing it to remain viable until the heart transplant concluded.

After the successful heart implantation, Dr. Adams and Dr. Kendra Conzen proceeded with the liver transplant, which took an additional seven hours. The surgery concluded safely, and Gracie was discharged from the hospital about a month later, marking her successful recovery.

Now, seven months post-surgery, Gracie is thriving. She has returned to school and is enjoying life at home with her dogs. While she will require another heart transplant in the future, her new liver has the potential to last a lifetime.

“This procedure highlights the exceptional skills and dedication of the Children’s Colorado staff, addressing the nuanced needs of our pediatric patients,” stated Dr. Duncan Wilcox, Surgeon in Chief. “As Colorado's top pediatric hospital, we remain committed to advancing dual organ transplant options to help children in need.”

Children's Hospital Colorado prides itself on pioneering treatments that shape the future of pediatric healthcare. Founded in 1908, they are recognized nationally for their achievements and continue to innovate, offering comprehensive care across various locations in Colorado. For promoting such remarkable advancements in healthcare, the hospital is indeed a beacon of hope for families navigating the complexities of pediatric organ transplants.

For more information about Children's Hospital Colorado and their services, visit www.childrenscolorado.org.