Care of Patient Following Lung Transplantation

First Things First (assess & treat for the following)

  • Airway
    • Single- vs. double-lumen ETT
    • Double-lumen tube (DLT) usually changed to single-lumen one at end of case
    • IF DLT remains, there may be concern for airway edema.
  • Breathing
    • Minimize FiO2, PEEP to keep SaO2 >92%.
  • Circulation
    • Transplanted lungs are prone to edema.
    • Often support with vasoactive drugs is needed.

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Last updated: April 13, 2010