Lung Transplant
Here, our number one goal is to help you get your breath — and your life — back. We know the road to lung transplantation can be overwhelming for you and your family, but you’re never alone at the Hume-Lee Transplant Center. Our transplant care team will be with you every step of the way, from initial evaluation to long-term follow up care.
What is a Lung Transplant?
A lung transplant is a surgery. Doctors remove your diseased lung. Then, they replace it with a healthy lung from another person (a lung donor). Single lung transplants involve removing and replacing only one lung. Double lung transplants remove and replace both lungs.
Lung transplant surgery can treat lung disease caused by conditions such as:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Cystic fibrosis (CF)
- Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPD), a type of interstitial lung disease
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Sarcoidosis
Understanding the Transplant Process
Lung transplant surgery is a big decision, and we know it takes time to consider your choices. We’ll be here to support you through recovery, making sure you understand the details and know what to expect at every step, including:
- Being evaluated for lung transplantation
- Waiting for your new lung
- Preparing and undergoing lung transplant surgery
- Living with your new lung
Meeting Your Lung Transplant Team
Your transplant team will include professionals with different experience and expertise, all working together to ensure your safety — and the best possible outcome.
Your treatment team will likely include a:
- Transplant surgeon. This doctor will perform your transplant surgery.
- Transplant pulmonologist. A doctor who specializes in respiratory care will evaluate your eligibility for surgery and oversee your care for life after your transplant.
- Transplant pharmacist. This professional will educate you about the medications you’ll need after your transplant.
- Transplant dietician. This registered professional will assess your nutritional needs and provide education on diet and nutrition.
- Transplant coordinator. This nurse guides your care, making sure you have all the information you need at every stage of the transplant process and advocating on your behalf.
- Social worker/psychologist. This professional will meet with you to assess your readiness for a transplant.
- Financial coordinator. This professional will meet with you to discuss your insurance coverage.