This procedure works well for extracorporeal preservation of lungs for transplant and there are no serious concerns about its safety.
A donor lung for transplant is usually stored in a cold liquid after it has been removed to preserve lung function for a limited period of time, until the lung can be transplanted.
In this procedure, a machine is used to deliver oxygenated solution to the donor lung and keep it at normal body temperature. The aim is to reduce damage to the donor lung, increase the time the lung can be stored, and allow assessment of how well the lung works before it is transplanted. This procedure may also allow more donor lungs to be used for transplant.
The NHS website may have information on your condition and treatment options.
You can search the NHS website for information about consultants and hospitals that offer this procedure.
Is this procedure right for me?
You should be included in making decisions about your care.
Your healthcare professionals should explain the risks and benefits of this procedure and how it is done. They should discuss your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. They should offer you more information about the procedure. Your family or carers can be involved if you want or need them to be.
You will be asked to decide whether you agree (consent) to have the procedure. Find out more about giving consent to treatment on the NHS website.
Some questions to think about
- How many appointments will I need?
- What are the possible benefits? How likely am I to get them?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- Will I have to stay in hospital?
- What happens if it does not work or something goes wrong?
- What happens if I do not want the procedure?
- Are other treatments available?
More information
- NICE's information on interventional procedures guidance explains what an interventional procedure is and how we assess it.
- NICE’s information on interventional procedures recommendations explains what standard arrangements are.
ISBN: 978-1-4731-4137-7
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