A desperate situation is unfolding for the family of a 2-year-old boy named Francesco, who underwent a heart transplant on December 23 at Monaldi Hospital in Naples. His lawyer, Francesco Petruzzi, reported the dire need for a new heart as the boy remains connected to an ECMO machine, which has been keeping him alive for over 50 days. The current organ he received has been termed ‘burnt,’ suggesting it was irreparably damaged during transport.

The controversy arose when the public prosecutor in Naples ordered the seizure of the transport container that carried the organ from Bolzano to Naples. There are suspicions that this container may have malfunctioned, contributing to the organ's poor condition. The local health authorities and the NAS Carabinieri have initiated an investigation, reviewing extensive documentation from both the Naples hospital and the San Maurizio Hospital in Bolzano, which could result in serious implications for the medical professionals involved.

As six individuals, including doctors and paramedics, are being investigated for involuntary injuries, the urgency for a functioning heart transplant grows. The situation highlights not only the urgent need for organ transplants in pediatric cases but also raises significant questions about the protocols and safeguards in place during organ transport. The family and legal representatives remain hopeful yet fearful for the child's worsening condition as they await news of a viable replacement organ.