Who was Sir Terence English?

Sir Terence English was a distinguished surgeon who led the UK's first successful human heart transplant operation.

When was the first UK heart transplant performed?

The UK's first successful heart transplant, led by Sir Terence English, was performed in 1979.

Where did Sir Terence English work?

Sir Terence English worked at Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridgeshire from 1972 to 1995.

Home / Health / Pioneer of UK Heart Transplants Dies at 93

Pioneer of UK Heart Transplants Dies at 93

25 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Sir Terence English, pioneer of UK's first successful heart transplant, has died.
He performed the historic operation in 1979 on patient Keith Castle.
English worked at Royal Papworth Hospital from 1972 to 1995.

Pioneer of UK Heart Transplants Dies at 93

Sir Terence English, a pivotal figure in British medical history, has died at 93. He is celebrated for leading the UK's inaugural successful human heart transplant operation in 1979. This landmark achievement followed a decade-long pause in such procedures due to previous failures.

Born in South Africa, Sir Terence established his career at Royal Papworth Hospital, where he worked for over two decades. He meticulously studied international advancements in heart transplantation, bringing crucial knowledge back to the UK to overcome significant challenges and skepticism.

His perseverance culminated in the successful transplant of Keith Castle, a 52-year-old builder. Sir Terence's contributions were further recognized with a knighthood in 1991 for his immense impact on surgery and medicine.