Continuing a Legacy of Transplant "Firsts"

A transplant is a deeply personal and life-changing experience — one that touches not only recipients but also donors and their families. At the Houston Methodist Walter Transplant Center, we’re proud to be recognized as the No. 1 multi-organ transplant program in the nation and the No. 5 transplant program overall.

With world-class expertise and a collaborative infrastructure built for complex care, our teams provide the highest level of treatment for those facing the most challenging organ and tissue transplants, as well as management of advanced organ failure.

In gratitude for foundational philanthropic support, the Walter Transplant Center honors J.C. Walter Jr., a Texas philanthropist and oilman who served on the Houston Methodist Hospital Board of Directors.

Teaching Pancreatic Cells New Tricks

Teaching Pancreatic Cells New Tricks

When many people think of transplant medicine, they picture high‑stakes surgeries involving the transfer of a vital organ. Cell transplantation, however, offers a far less invasive alternative — opening the door to new possibilities for treatment, recovery and long‑term health.

Read "Reawakening Potential"
Transplant Research

The research team at the Walter Transplant Center improves transplant outcomes by advancing strategies that enhance organ health, reduce rejection and ultimately lessen reliance on lifelong medication. Experts lead and participate in clinical trials focused on developing new immunosuppressive therapies, minimizing complications and strengthening defenses against postoperative infections.

Leading Heart-Lung Transplants

The Walter Transplant Center builds on the legacy of cardiac surgery pioneer Dr. Michael E. DeBakey, who led Houston Methodist's first heart transplant in 1968. Today, our center has performed more than 760 heart transplants, underscoring a reputation as one of the nation’s premier programs. The center’s teams also operate one of the few active heart–lung transplant programs in the country.

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