[Lung transplantation--indication, evaluation, risks and complications].

Abstract

To date, lung transplantation is an established therapy for advanced lung diseases such as chronic obstructive lung disease, cystic fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, and pulmonary arterial hypertension. This therapeutic option not only leads to increased survival but also to improvements in quality of life. To date, one-year survival rates at the Zurich Lung Transplant Program are 87% and five-year survival rates are 72%. It is of most importance that the referral to the transplanting center is not too late and that the right time point for transplant surgery is not missed. Progress has been made with regard to early detection and therapy of chronic allograft rejection thereby improving long-term survival substantially.