An Overview of Lung Transplants
CC: lung illustration, photo by Joe Crawford (artlung)
By: Lawrence J.
Lung transplant (LT) surgeries are performed for patients who suffer from pulmonary diseases that have failed to respond to other treatments. Unless their lung disorders are corrected, these patients will die within a couple years. The only option to save their lives is to replace their diseased lungs with healthy ones donated from others. Unfortunately, there are fewer donors than patients who are in need.
This article will take a close look at the conditions that warrant a lung transplant, and the process by which patients are included on the waiting list. You’ll also learn how the operation is performed. Finally, we’ll cover a few important details regarding the long-term outlook for patients following the procedure.
Lung Diseases That May Require A Transplant
There are several pulmonary conditions that affect the ability of the lungs to oxygenate a person’s blood. These disorders may damage the lungs to the point that a transplant is necessary. An example is pulmonary hypertension. It is defined by elevated pressure in the pulmonary arteries, the blood vessels that carry oxygen-poor blood to the lungs. The disorder can eventually cause damage to the lung tissue.
Another condition is called cystic fibrosis. Here, the patient’s body produces mucus that is much thicker than normal. It accumulates in the airways, allowing bacteria to flourish. The bacteria can evolve into an infection that damages the lungs.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an incurable lung disorder that impairs a person’s ability to breathe normally. It worsens with time, and can slowly compromise the patient’s lung function.
Some people suffer from a condition called pulmonary fibrosis. The lung tissue becomes scarred and thickened due to one of numerous circumstances. As the tissue thickens, the lung becomes less able to move oxygen through the walls of the alveoli.
If a patient suffers from any of these lung diseases, and is not responding to medications or other forms of therapy, he or she may require a lung transplant. In order to receive one, the patient must apply, and be admitted, to a transplant program.
How Patients Are Included In The Lung Transplant Program
Most hospitals that have surgeons who can perform organ transplants maintain their own transplant program. Patients are required to apply to the program in order to be considered for the procedure. Several tests are conducted to ensure the applicant is in good enough health to receive a new lung. Tests may include spirometry, an echocardiogram, electrocardiogram, and a number of blood tests.
An interview is conducted to determine whether the patient is prepared for the complications that can arise from surgery. The medical staff will also try to ensure he or she is fully aware of the challenges and frustrations posed by the recovery period.
The Lung Transplant Procedure Described
Once a donor lung has been identified as a suitable match for the patient, immediate surgery is scheduled. The patient is given general anesthesia to put him or her to sleep . Then, a small hole is created in the person’s chest, through which a catheter is passed to a blood vessel. Medications are delivered to the bloodstream through the catheter.
A tube is introduced via the windpipe in order to help the patient breathe during the operation. Another tube is passed to the stomach for drainage.
A long incision is made into the chest to reach the affected lung. The surgeon will isolate the organ by severing the pulmonary artery, pulmonary veins, and main airway connection. The lung is then removed.
The donor lung is implanted into the patient’s chest, and the pulmonary artery, veins, and airway are connected to it. The entry wound is sutured, and the patient is transferred to an intensive care unit for recovery.
Expectations Following Lung Transplant Surgery
Most people stay in the hospital from one to three weeks following surgery. During this time, they are encouraged to practice breathing exercises designed to rebuild pulmonary strength. Once patients leave the hospital, a number of lifestyle changes will likely be necessary. A healthy diet, low alcohol consumption, routine exercise, and a commitment to stop smoking will improve the likelihood of survival.
A majority of transplant recipients survive and enjoy a higher quality of life. Much depends, however, on the body’s ability to accept the new organ.
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