The Loyola University lung transplant experience.

Background: We reviewed our experience with isolated lung transplantation at Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Ill. From April 1990 through June 1992, 33 lung transplantations for end-stage pulmonary disease were performed (30 single lung, three bilateral single lung). Recipient diagnoses include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, alpha 1-antiprotease deficiency, pulmonary fibrosis, primary pulmonary hypertension, Eisenmenger's syndrome, sarcoidosis, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, and bronchiolitis obliterans.

Methods: For patients who underwent transplantation for end-stage obstructive airway disease, we retrospectively reviewed functional indexes before and after transplantation. In addition, the overall survival rate was determined.

Results: Successful transplantation resulted in a marked improvement in functional capacity. Single-lung transplantation for end-stage obstructive airway disease resulted in a threefold improvement in the 1-second forced expiratory volume, from 0.49 to 1.64 L. The actual survival for all isolated lung transplant recipients (including both single-lung and bilateral single-lung procedures) was 73%, with a 15% 30-day mortality.

Conclusion: Isolated lung transplantation can significantly improve functional capacity as well as the quality of life in patients with end-stage lung disease.