*1. INTRODUCTION*

*1.1 This report summarises an external review of a higher than expected number of deaths following heart transplants performed at Harefield Hospital in July and August 2008.* 

*1.2 The review was an agreed joint approach between the National Specialised Commissioning Team (NSC Team) and the Healthcare Commission (HCC). It was also agreed with the Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Trust (RBHT). The HCC has reviewed the findings of this report.* 
