Management Team

Lung Transplant

Overview

Lung transplant is a life-saving surgical treatment for end-stage lung disease and is considered when the patient has exhausted all other treatment options. A multi-disciplinary team at the department of lung transplant has performed more than 250 lung transplants and is well equipped to manage all cases requiring multi-modality approaches.

Location: Room No – 214, Second Floor, Heritage Building

Timings: Monday, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

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The department of lung transplant is equipped with cutting-edge technology and has experienced clinicians and surgeons that provide world-class treatment. The lung transplant surgery usually takes 6-12 hours, depending on the condition of the patient. Associated illnesses may affect the prognosis, depending on the severity of the associated illness. Nevertheless, a person can live with one lung, provided it is functioning adequately. Depending on the case, four types of lung transplant surgery options are available:

  • Double lung transplant: In this, both lungs are removed and replaced with two lungs from a single donor. This is the preferred option in most cases.
  • Single lung transplant: A single damaged lung (the most damaged) is removed and replaced with a single donated lung. This is indicated in a few select cases.
  • Lobar transplant: One or two lobes from the donor(s) are transplanted into the recipient. It is indicated in certain cases of lung size discrepancies and for paediatric patients.
  • Combined heart-lung transplant: The heart and both lungs are removed and replaced with a heart and two lungs from a single donor. This is indicated for pulmonary vessel abnormalities or cases of end-stage heart and lung diseases.
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Individuals with severely damaged and unhealthy lungs experience breathing difficulties and are dependent on continuous oxygen support. The limited oxygen supply to the body makes it difficult for the organs to function effectively and reduces life expectancy. The surgery is recommended only after all the alternative means of treatment have been exhausted and the life expectancy without the transplant is estimated to be less than 2 years. At the department, treatment is provided for the following conditions:

  • Pulmonary Fibrosis: Scarring of the lungs leading to its shrinkage from any cause including COVID-19, pneumonia, connective tissue related, or idiopathic.
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Damage to the small airways and lung cells (alveoli) due to exposure to smoke, and pollutants, among others.
  • Bronchiectasis: Destruction of the large airways.
  • Cystic lung disease: Formation of multiple hollow cavities in the lungs.
  • Pulmonary hypertension: High pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs
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  • Those with progressive end-stage lung disease who have exhausted all other forms of treatment.
  • The end-stage disease is not likely to recur within the next 5 years.
  • No major comorbid illnesses such as kidney or liver diseases limiting 5-year survival.
  • No long-term active infection like hepatitis B or C.
  • No history of any recent or active malignancy.
  • No active substance abuse.
  • A reliable social support system.
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  • Transplant rejection: Transplant rejection implies the failure of the donor organ. The body's immune system may recognise the donated lungs as foreign and try to reject them. Immunosuppressive medications are administered to reduce the rejection risk.
  • Infection: The transplant recipients are at an increased risk of infection due to the compromised immunity. Adequate hygiene and minimum social contact are needed to minimise the risk of infection.
  • Stroke and blood clots in the vessels of the lungs, heart, and legs, may arise during the postoperative period.
  • Medications may cause diabetes, bone thinning, or high cholesterol levels.
  • Immunosuppressive drugs may cause upset stomach, kidney injury, or liver injury.
  • Increased risk of certain cancers.
  • Unforeseeable issues may arise at the joining sites of the airways or blood vessels.
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  • Acute rejection: This may occur due to infection, acid reflux, or non-compliance with immunosuppressants. It requires additional therapy for a short duration. Surveillance biopsies of the lung are needed at regular intervals.
  • Chronic rejection: This is due to a gradual decline in lung function. However, it can happen rapidly in some patients, warranting aggressive care.
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