Our Summary
This research looked at patients who had a lung transplant because of severe lung damage caused by COVID-19 (CALI). They compared these patients to those who had a lung transplant due to other non-COVID related lung diseases. The study was conducted between June 2020 and April 2022 at a large hospital in Chicago.
The study found that those who received lung transplants due to COVID-19 damage were less likely to have been vaccinated before their transplant. They were also more likely to have diabetes and obesity, and to require extra support for breathing both before and after their transplant.
These patients were also more likely to get infections both before their transplant (66.7% compared to 15.4%) and in the first 30 days after the surgery (43.6% compared to 20.5%). However, the overall number and types of infections were similar in both groups at other times after the transplant.
The study also found that the death rate a year after the transplant was similar for both groups (12.8% for the COVID-19 group and 10.3% for the other group).
The conclusion of the research is that patients who get a lung transplant due to COVID-19 damage are more likely to have longer hospital stays and experience more infections just before and just after their transplant. This could be due to their poorer health condition and the presence of drug-resistant bacteria. The researchers highlight the need for careful use of antibiotics in these patients.
FAQs
- What differences were found between patients who received lung transplants due to COVID-19 damage and those with other non-COVID related lung diseases?
- What is the death rate a year after the transplant for patients who had a lung transplant due to COVID-19 damage compared to those with other non-COVID related lung diseases?
- Why are patients who get a lung transplant due to COVID-19 damage more likely to have longer hospital stays and experience more infections?
Doctor’s Tip
A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about lung transplant is to prioritize getting vaccinated to reduce the risk of severe infections and complications before and after the surgery. It is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, manage any underlying health conditions such as diabetes and obesity, and follow post-transplant care instructions carefully to improve outcomes and reduce the risk of infections. Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers are crucial for monitoring progress and addressing any concerns promptly.
Suitable For
Patients who are typically recommended for a lung transplant are those with end-stage lung disease that cannot be effectively treated with other medical or surgical interventions. This can include conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, cystic fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension, and bronchiectasis, among others.
In the case of the study mentioned above, patients with severe lung damage caused by COVID-19 were also recommended for a lung transplant if they met the criteria for end-stage lung disease and had failed other treatments. These patients may have had additional risk factors such as diabetes, obesity, and a higher likelihood of infections, which could impact their outcomes post-transplant.
It is important for patients being considered for a lung transplant to undergo a thorough evaluation by a multidisciplinary team of transplant specialists to determine their eligibility and suitability for the procedure. Factors such as age, overall health, lung function, presence of other medical conditions, and willingness to adhere to post-transplant care and medication regimens will all be taken into consideration when recommending a lung transplant for a patient.
Timeline
Overall timeline of a patient before and after lung transplant:
Before transplant:
- Patient undergoes evaluation process to determine eligibility for transplant
- Patient may be placed on a waiting list for a donor organ
- Patient experiences worsening symptoms and deterioration of lung function
- Patient may require supplemental oxygen or mechanical ventilation
- Patient may experience frequent infections and complications due to lung disease
After transplant:
- Patient undergoes surgery to receive new lung(s)
- Patient is closely monitored in the intensive care unit for a period of time
- Patient begins rehabilitation and physical therapy to regain strength and function
- Patient takes immunosuppressant medication to prevent rejection of the new lung(s)
- Patient undergoes regular follow-up appointments and monitoring to assess lung function and overall health
- Patient may experience complications such as infections, rejection episodes, or side effects from medication
- Patient gradually improves lung function and quality of life over time
Overall, the process of lung transplant can be challenging and complex, but it can also provide life-saving benefits and improve quality of life for patients with severe lung disease.
What to Ask Your Doctor
What factors make me a good candidate for a lung transplant?
What is the success rate of lung transplants in patients with severe lung damage caused by COVID-19 compared to other lung diseases?
How will my recovery process differ if I have a lung transplant due to COVID-19 damage compared to other lung diseases?
What kind of support will I need for breathing before and after the transplant?
What steps can I take to prevent infections before and after the transplant?
How will my vaccination status impact my eligibility for a lung transplant?
What are the potential risks and complications associated with a lung transplant for COVID-19 damage?
How will my diabetes and obesity affect my recovery and long-term outcomes after a lung transplant?
How long can I expect to stay in the hospital after a lung transplant for COVID-19 damage?
What post-transplant care and follow-up will be necessary to ensure the best possible outcome?
Reference
Authors: Osborn R, Alamri M, Tomic R, Ison MG. Journal: Clin Infect Dis. 2023 Jul 26;77(2):220-228. doi: 10.1093/cid/ciad160. PMID: 36942560