Canine double-lung allotransplantation: operative technique and results for 12-h preservation studies

A canine double-lung allotransplantation model was developed to study the effects of 12-h static pulmonary preservation. This model has not been used extensively for such experiments but allows a detailed evaluation of the quality of preservation. An operative technique is described in which cautery dissection and preliminary devascularization of the recipient right lung allows the period of cardiopulmonary bypass to be limited and reduces postoperative bleeding. Six double-lung blocks were successfully orthotopically transplanted and recipient animals were studied for 12 h postoperatively. All animals survived the study period and had a mean PO2 (FIO2 0.4) of 141 mm Hg, 12 h following reimplantation suggesting adequate pulmonary preservation. There was no evidence of pulmonary edema at any time following implantation, although airway pressures and pulmonary vascular resistance were elevated. The role of this model in lung preservation studies is discussed.