Imaging of Lung Transplantation

Area of Science:

• Medical imaging
• Thoracic surgery
• Pulmonology

Background:

• Lung transplantation is the sole curative option for end-stage lung disease.
• Diverse patient populations and pathologies necessitate careful pre-transplant evaluation.
• Post-transplant monitoring is essential for managing potential complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical role of imaging in lung transplantation.
• To outline the imaging surveillance protocols for lung transplant recipients.
• To identify common imaging modalities used in post-transplant care.

Main Methods:

• Pre-transplant imaging of potential donors and recipients.
• Post-transplant imaging in immediate, early, intermediate, and late periods.
• Utilization of radiography and computed tomography (CT) for chest evaluation.

Main Results:

• Imaging identifies contraindications for transplantation.
• Radiography and CT are the primary tools for post-transplant assessment.
• Continuous imaging surveillance detects complications requiring intervention.

Conclusions:

• Imaging is indispensable throughout the lung transplantation process.
• Radiography and CT are vital for monitoring lung transplant recipients.
• Timely imaging interventions improve patient outcomes after lung transplantation.