An Italian toddler has died after receiving a damaged donor heart in a transplant.
The two-year-old, named Domenico, died shortly before 9.30am local time on Saturday, his family’s lawyer, Francesco Petruzzi, reportedly said.
The lawyer alleged the donor heart had been “burned by frostbite” when it was transported 800km in a container with dry ice, causing severe tissue damage, the BBC reported.
Domenico had been on life support for over two months, after the transplant operation in December.
An investigation has been opened into the incident, and six medics have been put under formal investigation.
On Saturday his mother, Patrizia Mercolino, told reporters “it’s over. Domenico is gone”.
A foundation would be established in Domenico’s name, his mother later said. The family’s lawyer said the foundation would be for all children who cannot have a transplant, as well as helping all victims of malpractice and medical negligence, the BBC reported.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni posted to X saying “the whole of Italy is united in grief over the loss of little Domenico, a warrior who will never be forgotten”.
“To his mother Patrizia, his father Antonio, and all his loved ones, on behalf of myself and the Government, I extend the most heartfelt embrace and the deepest condolences,” the translated post read.
“I am certain that the competent authorities will shed full light on this terrible tragedy.”