2024-01-01 · transplant, thoracic, surgery
Lung Transplant Surgery FAQ
What Is a Lung Transplant?
A lung transplant is a surgical procedure to replace one or both diseased lungs with healthy donor lungs. It is considered when severe lung disease can no longer be managed with medications or other therapies and breathing is significantly limited.
Why Might Someone Need a Lung Transplant?
Common reasons for lung transplantation include:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Pulmonary fibrosis or interstitial lung disease
- Cystic fibrosis
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Advanced sarcoidosis or other progressive lung conditions
Transplant teams evaluate overall health and severity to determine eligibility.
What Symptoms Indicate Advanced Lung Disease?
Symptoms of end-stage lung disease may include:
- Severe shortness of breath at rest or with minimal activity
- Chronic cough or worsening oxygen needs
- Fatigue and weight loss
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Reduced ability to perform daily activities
Comprehensive testing helps determine transplant timing.
About the Lung Transplant Procedure
Lung transplant surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically lasts several hours. One or both lungs are removed and replaced with donor lungs. The surgical approach depends on whether a single or double transplant is needed and the patient’s anatomy.
What Happens After Lung Transplant Surgery?
Patients recover in the hospital and are closely monitored in the ICU initially. A ventilator may be used temporarily. Immunosuppressive medications are started to prevent rejection, and respiratory therapy helps restore lung function. Hospital stays commonly range from two to three weeks, depending on recovery.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Recovery can take several months:
- Frequent clinic visits and lab tests are required early on
- Pulmonary rehabilitation helps rebuild endurance
- Many people resume light activities within two to three months
Long-term success depends on medication adherence and follow-up care.
What Are the Potential Risks?
Possible complications include:
- Organ rejection
- Infection due to immunosuppression
- Bleeding or blood clots
- Airway complications at the surgical connection
- Chronic rejection over time
Your transplant team provides detailed risk counseling.
When Should I Seek Medical Attention?
Seek urgent care for fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, sudden fatigue, or signs of infection. Any changes in breathing or oxygen needs should be reported immediately.