Our Summary

This study looks at the results of the lung transplant program in Western Australia over 11 years from 2004 to 2015. During this time, 115 lung transplants were carried out on patients with severe lung disease. These transplants included 88 double lung transplants, 22 single lung transplants, and 5 heart-lung transplants. The most common reasons for needing a transplant were interstitial lung disease, cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

The study found that the survival rate for these patients was 96% after 3 months, 93% after 1 year, 84% after 3 years, and 70% after 5 years. However, older patients and those with a higher body mass index (BMI) had a lower chance of survival. The main cause of death in patients who didn’t survive was chronic lung allograft dysfunction, a condition where the transplanted lung doesn’t work properly.

Overall, the study shows that lung transplants are a viable treatment for end-stage lung disease, with the number of transplants in Western Australia increasing every year. In terms of survival rates, the results are on par with international standards.

FAQs

  1. What were the most common reasons for needing a lung transplant according to the study?
  2. What was the survival rate of patients after a lung transplant based on this 11-year study in Western Australia?
  3. What was noted as the main cause of death in patients who didn’t survive post lung transplant?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about lung transplant is to carefully follow the post-transplant care plan provided by their medical team. This may include taking immunosuppressant medications as prescribed, attending regular follow-up appointments, participating in pulmonary rehabilitation programs, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle through exercise and proper nutrition. By following these recommendations, patients can help improve their chances of a successful outcome and long-term survival after a lung transplant.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a lung transplant are those with end-stage lung disease, such as:

  1. Interstitial lung disease: A group of lung disorders that cause inflammation and scarring of the lung tissue.
  2. Cystic fibrosis: A genetic disorder that causes thick, sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and other organs.
  3. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): A progressive lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe.
  4. Pulmonary hypertension: High blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs.
  5. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency: A genetic disorder that can lead to lung and liver disease.

Patients who have failed other treatments, such as medications, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation, may also be considered for a lung transplant. Additionally, patients must meet certain criteria, such as being in good overall health aside from their lung disease, having a strong support system, and being willing to commit to the post-transplant care regimen.

Timeline

Before a lung transplant, a patient typically undergoes a series of tests and evaluations to determine if they are a suitable candidate for the procedure. This may include imaging tests, lung function tests, blood tests, and psychological evaluations. The patient is also placed on a waiting list for a donor organ, which can vary in length depending on factors such as blood type and severity of illness.

After receiving a lung transplant, the patient will be closely monitored in the hospital for several weeks to ensure the new organ is functioning properly and to prevent complications such as infection or rejection. They will also need to take immunosuppressant medications for the rest of their life to prevent the body from rejecting the new lung.

In the months and years following a lung transplant, the patient will continue to have regular check-ups and monitoring to assess lung function and overall health. They will also need to make lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, to maximize the success of the transplant. The patient may also need to participate in pulmonary rehabilitation programs to improve lung function and overall quality of life.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications associated with a lung transplant?
  2. How long is the recovery process after a lung transplant?
  3. How will the transplant affect my daily life and activities?
  4. What medications will I need to take after the transplant and what are the potential side effects?
  5. How often will I need to follow up with my transplant team after the surgery?
  6. Are there any lifestyle changes I need to make to improve my chances of a successful transplant?
  7. How will the transplant impact my existing medical conditions or medications?
  8. What support services are available for transplant patients and their families?
  9. What is the average survival rate for patients who undergo a lung transplant?
  10. What factors can affect the success of a lung transplant in terms of age, BMI, and underlying health conditions?

Reference

Authors: Dhillon S, McKinnon E, Wrobel J, Lavender M, Lawrence S, Gabbay E, Musk M. Journal: Intern Med J. 2018 Nov;48(11):1337-1345. doi: 10.1111/imj.14001. PMID: 29923278