Naples investigation continues into failed heart transplant death

A judicial investigation is progressing in Naples regarding the death of two-year-old Domenico Caliendo following a failed heart transplant at the Monaldi Hospital. A medical-legal expert report, prepared by professors Biagio Solarino, Ugolino Livi, and Ferdinando Luca Lorini, has been filed to reconstruct the clinical events between the transplant on December 23, 2025, and the child's death on February 21.

The investigation focuses on whether medical errors occurred during the organ transfer from Bolzano to Naples and the subsequent surgical procedures. Specifically, experts are examining if the heart suffered anatomical or functional alterations due to improper cooling methods, as dry ice was reportedly used instead of following standard guidelines. The report also evaluates the medical conduct during the child's time in intensive care.

Concurrently, a review hearing is being held at the Tribunal of Review regarding the suspension of cardiologists Guido Oppido and Emma Bergonzoni. The specialists face allegations of ideological falsehood related to the potential alteration of medical documentation and surgical reports following the child's death.