Our Summary

This study looked back at the cases of 128 people who received a lung transplant between 2004 and 2017 due to various lung diseases. The researchers wanted to know how long these patients survived after their transplant and if there were differences based on the type of transplant (either one lung or both lungs) and the disease they had. They found that patients with cystic fibrosis had the best survival rates after a lung transplant. They also found that people who received double lung transplants generally lived longer than those who only received a single lung transplant. This was especially true for patients with a disease called primary pulmonary hypertension. The study suggests that double lung transplants might be a better treatment option for these patients.

FAQs

  1. What was the primary focus of the lung transplant study conducted between 2004 and 2017?
  2. How does the type of lung disease affect survival rates after a lung transplant?
  3. Are double lung transplants generally more successful than single lung transplants, according to the study?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about lung transplant is to follow a strict medication regimen post-transplant. This includes taking immunosuppressant medications to prevent rejection of the new lung(s) and antibiotics to prevent infections. It’s important to take these medications exactly as prescribed and to attend all follow-up appointments with your transplant team to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. Additionally, it’s important to avoid exposure to smoke, pollutants, and other lung irritants to help protect your new lungs and ensure their long-term success.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a lung transplant include those with end-stage lung diseases such as cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, primary pulmonary hypertension, and bronchiectasis. These patients typically have severe symptoms, reduced lung function, and poor quality of life despite optimal medical management. Lung transplant may be considered when other treatment options have been exhausted and the patient’s condition continues to worsen. Additionally, patients must meet certain criteria such as being physically and mentally healthy enough to undergo the transplant surgery and post-operative care, as well as having a strong support system in place for the recovery process.

Timeline

Before a lung transplant:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with a severe lung disease such as cystic fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, or primary pulmonary hypertension.
  2. Patient undergoes extensive testing and evaluation to determine if they are a suitable candidate for a lung transplant.
  3. Patient is placed on a waiting list for a donor lung(s) based on their medical condition and urgency.
  4. Patient experiences worsening symptoms and decreased lung function while waiting for a transplant.
  5. Patient receives a call that a donor lung(s) is available and undergoes the transplant surgery.

After a lung transplant:

  1. Patient is closely monitored in the hospital for complications and recovery after the surgery.
  2. Patient undergoes rehabilitation and physical therapy to regain strength and lung function.
  3. Patient takes immunosuppressant medications to prevent rejection of the donor lung(s).
  4. Patient attends regular follow-up appointments with their transplant team to monitor their health and adjust medications as needed.
  5. Patient gradually resumes normal activities and enjoys improved quality of life with their new lung(s).
  6. Patient may experience complications or rejection episodes that require medical intervention.
  7. Patient continues to be monitored for the rest of their life to ensure the success of the transplant.

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 I be monitored and cared for post-transplant?
  4. What medications will I need to take after the transplant and what are the potential side effects?
  5. How will a lung transplant affect my daily activities and quality of life?
  6. What is the success rate of lung transplants for patients with my specific lung disease?
  7. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before pursuing a lung transplant?
  8. How often will I need to follow up with my transplant team after the surgery?
  9. What support services are available to help me and my family before, during, and after the transplant?
  10. What are the long-term implications and potential challenges I may face after receiving a lung transplant?

Reference

Authors: Antończyk R, Stącel T, Urlik M, Latos M, Kręt M, Borowik D, Wajda-Pokrontka M, Zawadzki F, Tatoj Z, Przybyłowski P, Zembala M, Ochman M, Nęcki M. Journal: Transplant Proc. 2020 Sep;52(7):2138-2142. doi: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2020.03.046. Epub 2020 May 28. PMID: 32474000