Successful Lung Transplantation Using a Deceased Donor Mechanically Ventilated for Ten Months

Abstract

A successful outcome after lung transplant was achieved using lungs donated from a teenage boy who underwent prolonged mechanical ventilation. The donor experienced hypoxic brain damage and was declared brain dead 324 days after tracheal intubation. At the time of referral, the donor's lungs revealed diffuse radiologic infiltration and atelectasis but excellent function, with a PaO₂/FiO₂ ratio of 450. The lungs were transplanted to a 10-year-old girl with bronchiolitis obliterans. She developed grade 2 primary graft dysfunction, but recovered quickly. She is doing well and has not experienced any other critical adverse events 12 months after lung transplantation.