[Lung transplantation]

In the past 10 years, three different types of lung transplantation were introduced into clinical practice, the combined transplantation of the heart and both lungs (HLTx), unilateral single lung transplantation (SLTx), and bilateral sequential lung transplantation (DLTx). At present, the indications for the various procedures have not been ultimately defined. Through 1991, a total of about 1,100 HLTx, 460 SLTx, and 160 DLTx was performed worldwide. One- und 3-year survival rates amount to 75-60% resp. in HLTx, to 80-70% resp. in SLTx, and to 70-60% resp. in DLTx. In our own experience with 24 HLTx, 32 SLTx, and 18 DLTx patients, global survival rates at one and 3 years are 85 and 80%, resp. The vast majority of surviving patients is able to lead a near normal life both physically and socially.