Lung Transplantation

A lung transplant requires a lot of planning and preparation. For this reason, it is important to begin discussing a lung transplant with your care team before you really need a transplant.

A lung transplant is an operation in which damaged lungs are replaced with a healthy set from a donor. When you are considering a lung transplant, knowing what to expect can help you understand if it is a treatment option for you.

There is no way to determine how long you will wait for a transplant. Your waiting time depends not only on your lung allocation score, but also on the availability of a donor lung that is a good match for you.

Lung transplantation is a demanding procedure -- physically and emotionally. Recovery in the hospital can be complicated and slow. Life after a transplant requires a lot of discipline.

Many people with cystic fibrosis face the possibility of a lung transplant. Lung transplantation can extend and improve your quality of life, but it involves an extensive evaluation process and a commitment to living the lifestyle required to keep your new lungs healthy.

Because lung transplants are physically, emotionally, and financially demanding, the transplant team must assess each of these aspects about your condition. While the team evaluates you, you need to do your own assessment and be sure that the transplant team and center are right for you.