Our Summary

This research paper discusses a technique used in lung transplants called ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP). Since its first use in 2001, it has been utilized by many lung transplant centers around the world and has undergone several modifications resulting in different systems and protocols. The most commonly used protocols are the Lund, Toronto, and Organ Care System Lung protocols, which have proven to be safe. The paper suggests that comparing these different EVLP systems and protocols could provide valuable information on which one is superior. It also reviews current experiences with EVLP and introduces potential targets for comparison between different techniques.

FAQs

  1. What is ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) and when was it first used?
  2. What are the most commonly used protocols in EVLP?
  3. What is the purpose of comparing different EVLP systems and protocols?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about lung transplant is to follow a strict medication regimen post-transplant to prevent rejection and infection. It is also important to attend all follow-up appointments and communicate any changes in symptoms or health to your medical team promptly. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet can help improve lung function and overall well-being after a transplant.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a lung transplant are those with end-stage lung disease who have exhausted all other treatment options and have a limited life expectancy without a transplant. This includes patients with conditions such as cystic fibrosis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and pulmonary hypertension. Patients must also meet certain criteria in order to be considered for a transplant, such as being physically fit enough to undergo surgery and having a good support system in place for post-transplant care. Additionally, patients must be willing to commit to a lifelong regimen of immunosuppressive medications to prevent rejection of the transplanted lung.

Timeline

Before lung transplant:

  1. Evaluation and assessment by a medical team to determine eligibility for lung transplant
  2. Placement on a waiting list for a suitable donor organ
  3. Monitoring of health, including medications and treatments to manage symptoms and improve lung function
  4. Waiting for a suitable donor organ to become available

After lung transplant:

  1. Surgery to remove the diseased lung and replace it with a donor lung
  2. Recovery in the hospital, including monitoring for complications and adjusting medications to prevent rejection
  3. Rehabilitation and physical therapy to regain strength and lung function
  4. Ongoing medical follow-up to monitor for signs of rejection or complications and adjust medications as needed
  5. Adjustment to life with a new lung, including lifestyle changes and continued medical care to maintain overall health and wellbeing.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a lung transplant surgery?

  2. How long is the recovery process expected to take after a lung transplant?

  3. What is the success rate of lung transplants using the ex vivo lung perfusion technique compared to traditional methods?

  4. How will my quality of life be affected after a lung transplant?

  5. What are the long-term effects and potential complications of having a lung transplant?

  6. How often will I need to have follow-up appointments and tests after the transplant?

  7. What medications will I need to take after the transplant and how long will I need to take them?

  8. How will the transplant team decide if I am a suitable candidate for a lung transplant using the ex vivo lung perfusion technique?

  9. How does the ex vivo lung perfusion technique work and what are the advantages of using this method?

  10. Are there any ongoing research or clinical trials related to lung transplants and the ex vivo lung perfusion technique that I should be aware of?

Reference

Authors: Mohamed MS. Journal: Exp Clin Transplant. 2015 Dec;13(6):493-9. PMID: 26643670