Lung Transplantation

UNC's lung transplant program is well-known nationally and internationally, especially for its treatment of patients with cystic fibrosis.

For an appointment, please call one of the lung transplant coordinators at the UNC transplant clinic at (919) 966-0424 or (919) 966-6038.

Patient Selection
Indications
Contraindications

Patient Selection

Lung transplantation may be indicated for children and adults with end-stage pulmonary parenchymal or vascular disease.

The most common diseases that could require single lung transplantation are:

• Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
• Emphysema (non-purulent)
• Alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency
• Post chemotherapy or radiation fibrosis
• Eosinophilic granulomatosis
• Primary pulmonary hypertension
• Sarcoidosis

Conditions requiring double lung transplant include:

• Cystic fibrosis
• Bronchiectasis
• Emphysema
• Primary pulmonary hypertension

Indications

• End stage pulmonary disease
• Life expectancy of less than 24 months

Contraindications

• Evidence of systemic disease which would separately limit survival
• Irreversible end organ dysfunction
• Unresolved tobacco, alcohol, or other drug abuse
• Documented medical noncompliance
• Age greater than 50 years (double lung) or 60 years (single lung)
• More than minimal use of daily steroids
• Non ambulatory or chronically ventilated patients
• Psychosocial history that would limit ability to comply with medical care post transplant
• Previous thoracotomy, chest tubes, pleurodesis, or pleural stripping are not contraindications to lung transplantation