Lung Transplant

Under the direction of Dr. Frederick L. Grover, the Lung Transplant Program at the University of Colorado Denver was initiated in the Fall of 1991. Since inception over 114 individual patients have been transplanted -- 4 with double lungs; 73 single lungs and 1 heart-lung. Pulmonary care for lung transplant patients is directed by Dr. Martin Zamora, Dr. David Badesch and Dr. Tony Hodges. In association with the organ transplant program at the University of Colorado, the Lung Transplant Program comprises a multi-disciplinary team of experts in transplantation - cardiothoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, anesthesiologists, a transplant coordinator, cardiologists, respiratory and physical therapists, a social worker, psychiatrists, dietitian and financial coordinator. Each member of this team provides comprehensive support for the patient, family and referring physician.

Patients considered for lung transplant are generally less than 65 years old, have a life expectancy of between 12-18 months, and whose medical therapy is no longer effective. A lung transplant patient must have adequate cardiac function, be emotionally stable and compliant with care guidelines. It is essential that a potential candidate for lung transplantation have no other major medical problems other than end-stage lung disease.

Diseases considered for transplantation include:

  • Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (COPD)
  • Alpha 1 Antitrypsin Deficiency
  • Asthma
  • Emphysema
  • Chronic Bronchitis
  • Interstitial Lung Disease
  • Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
  • Drug or Toxin Induced Lung Disease
  • Sarcoidosis
  • Scleroderma
  • Primary Pulmonary Hypertension
  • Eisenmenger's Syndrome
  • Cystic Fibrosis

Patients who are potential candidates for a lung transplant undergo a three to four day outpatient evaluation at University of Colorado Hospital.

Tests performed during the evaluation process include:

  • Chest x-ray
  • Ventilation and perfusion scan
  • Echocardiogram
  • Multiple gated blood pool scan
  • Cardiac catheterization
  • Pulmonary function tests
  • Vascular Studies
  • CT of chest, abdomen, pelvis
  • Various blood tests

Additional tests if over age 40:

  • Barium enema
  • Colonoscopy or Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

Patients also meet with members of the transplant team during the initial evaluation. As mentioned earlier, these experts work with patients and families to prepare them for all variables and responsibilities associated with lung transplantation-psycho-social concerns, diet, financial planning, rehabilitation, anesthesia, and education. This team also assists patients from outside the Denver area with accommodation planning. Once it is determined that a patient can undergo a transplant procedure, the patient is listed with UNOS (United Network of Organ Sharing) to obtain a lung. As of May 15, 1998, over 50 patients were on our waiting list. One criterion considered essential to a successful lung transplant is the coordination of medical consultation between the referring physician and the transplant team.

The average length of stay after lung transplantation is 12 days. If patients are from out of state we ask that they remain in the Denver-metro area for 3 months. Patients are followed weekly in the clinic. Clinic visits include blood draws, chest x-rays, pulmonary functions tests and a doctor visit. Patients are continually monitored for signs and symptoms of rejection and infection. If a patient has a rejection episode they are re-admitted for 3 days of IV Solmedrol. A PICC is also placed for CMS prophylaxis (Ganciclovir).