Native Lung Complications in Single Lung Transplant Recipients

Abstract

Purpose Single lung transplants are performed less frequently around the world. Associated with better survival, bilateral lung transplantation is prefered. However, in the setting of scarce organ supply, single lung transplant is still a viable choice as it expands the donor pool.We aimed to describe native lung complications in single lung transplant recipients. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study at a single lung transplant center in Buenos Aires, Argentina. We evaluated all single lung transplants performed from 2010 to 2019. Demographic characteristics and native lung complications, classified as infections, neoplasm and hyperinflation are presented. Results During the study period, 81 lung transplants were performed. 68% (n=55) were single lung transplants. 45% were performed in women. Mean age was 54 years.Cause of transplantation was as follow: COPD in 25 cases (45%), IPF in 22 cases (40%) and silicosis in 5 cases (9%).Native lung transplant complications were determined in 23 cases (36%). Infections were recorded in 13 ( 24%), neoplasm in 2 (4%) cases and hyperinflation in 8 (15%) cases. Both cases of neoplasm and one case of infection were determined as cause of death. Conclusion Native lung complications were common and were determined as cause of death in 15% of cases.