Lungs transplantation is the treatment for patients whose lungs have lost their function and there is no other treatment option. In some patients, transplantation of one lung is sufficient, in others, both lungs need to be changed. Some patients require a heart transplant along with a lung transplant. If both organs are to be transplanted, both the lungs and the heart must be taken from the same donor.
Lungs transplantation is a very difficult operation and can create severe complications. But transplantation is vital for patients. Doctors make evaluations according to the risk of losing the patient's life when making a transplant decision.
Why is Lungs Transplant Done?
Lungs are one of the most important organs in our body. “Breathing”, which is our most basic sign of life, takes place thanks to this organ, and our body obtains the oxygen necessary for living thanks to this organ. Lungs may lose their function due to external factors, diseases and accidents. If the loss of function cannot be cured by another treatment, the patient is transplanted. The following diseases may require a lung transplant.
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Cystic fibrosis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
How is Lungs Transplant Operate?
- First of all, it is decided whether the patient is suitable for lung transplantation.
- The patient who is found suitable for transplantation is placed on the waiting list and the waiting period continues until a suitable donor is found.
- During the waiting period, medicine therapy and oxygen therapy are applied.
- Lung transplant surgery is performed under general anesthesia.
- An incision is made in the chest and the damaged lung is removed.
- The bronchi and blood vessels are connected to the new lung and the new lung is placed in the chest.
