Preparing for a Lung Transplant

The evaluation process for a lung transplant is usually long and complicated. First, a doctor refers a patient to a regional transplant center. At the transplant center, doctors, psychologists, social workers, and other staff meet with the person to gather information. This may take place on several visits occurring over many weeks or months.

Besides the patient’s lung condition, the team considers the person’s family and social support, financial situation, psychological makeup, and any other medical conditions. Numerous tests are performed during a lung transplant evaluation, which can include:

• Pulmonary function tests
• Cardiac stress test
• Coronary artery catheterization
• Bone mineral density test
• Chest X-ray
• Computed tomography (CT scan) of the chest
• Blood tests for kidney function and liver function, and a complete blood count (CBC)
• Blood type and antibodies present in the blood, for matching against potential organ donors

Doctors usually won't recommend a lung transplant if these conditions are present: significant heart, liver, or kidney disease; alcohol or drug abuse; ongoing infections; or cancer. Also, anyone who continues to smoke cannot receive a lung transplant.

Article Referenced from WebMD.com