Two Options for Lung Transplant Evaluation
We recommend a limited evaluation or a complete evaluation based on how healthy you are, the timing of your transplant, and if you are able to tolerate activity.
Two-Day Limited Evaluation
This option is for people with less advanced lung disease who have time to wait before transplant. It requires some testing, which can be performed at your local health facility or at Duke. These appointments can take place remotely via telehealth or in person.
Five-Day Complete Evaluation
Complete evaluations are required before you can be added to the national waitlist for a donor organ. They are reserved for people with advanced lung disease who are ready for surgery and involve more extensive testing than the two-day option.
Lung Transplant Evaluation Tests
Tests Overview
Evaluation for lung transplantation can occur in the hospital or as an outpatient. You may have a two-day (limited) evaluation or a full, five-day evaluation. The schedule depends on how healthy you are, the timing of your transplant, and if you are able to tolerate activity. You will have some or all of the following tests, plus additional testing as needed.
Blood Tests
Description
Several blood tests will be performed to determine your blood type and assess the health of your kidneys, liver, and immune system. We also check for viruses or other infections that could cause a problem after surgery.
Pulmonary Function Tests
Description
These tests measure your breathing capacity. You will be asked to breathe in and out while a technologist measures the amount of air and the strength of your lungs.
Requirements for Lung Transplant Consideration
Treatments Overview
To be considered for a lung transplant, you must commit to staying healthy. The healthier you are, the better your odds are for a successful surgery.
Stop Smoking
Description
We require that you abstain from nicotine in all forms, including cigarettes, patches, and gum for six months before surgery. You must also complete a relapse prevention program and remain completely nicotine-free after transplant. Blood tests that reveal any exposure to tobacco will be performed at each transplant clinic visit. Our smoking cessation programs offer personalized treatment plans to help you quit for good.
Participate in Pulmonary Physical Therapy
Description
We require participation in our pulmonary rehabilitation program before your transplant to ensure physical readiness for surgery. You will spend several weeks taking part in supervised exercise -- at least three days a week -- and transplant education classes led by our lung transplant team. If you live more than two hours from Duke, we can help you relocate to Durham so that you can participate in the program.
Choose a Caregiver
Description
When you have a lung transplant at Duke, you are required to choose a primary caregiver who will support you throughout the transplantation process. They will:
- Attend appointments and education sessions
- Drive you to and from appointments, physical therapy, and surgery
- Manage your medications after surgery
- Provide personal care support (bathing, cooking, and chores)
Follow Recommendations from Your Transplant Team
Description
You may be asked to adhere to a special diet, gain or lose weight, and meet other requirements such as taking medications as prescribed and attending all appointments with your transplant team.
