Short-Term Outcomes After Lung Transplantation Using Grafts Preserved at 10 °C: A Single-Centre Study

Area of Science:

• Transplantation immunology
• Organ preservation techniques
• Surgical logistics

Background:

• Donor shortages and logistical challenges limit lung transplantation.
• Standard cold storage (4°C) can cause cold-induced injury.
• Moderate hypothermia (10°C) may enhance cellular integrity and preservation time.

Purpose of the Study:

• Evaluate the clinical safety and short-term effectiveness of lung graft preservation at 10°C.
• Assess the impact of 10°C preservation on postoperative outcomes.
• Determine feasibility within the Italian regulatory framework.

Main Methods:

• Prospective comparative cohort study of adult bilateral lung transplant recipients.
• Intervention group: 10°C preservation overnight; Control group: 4°C preservation immediate implantation.
• Primary endpoint: postoperative mechanical ventilation duration; Secondary endpoints: graft dysfunction, extracorporeal support, ICU stay, survival.

Main Results:

• The 10°C group had older donors and longer ischemic times but comparable outcomes.
• No significant differences in ventilation duration (P=.167), grade III dysfunction (P=.102), or ICU stay (P=.824).
• Survival rates were similar between the 10°C and 4°C preservation groups.

Conclusions:

• Moderate hypothermic preservation at 10°C is clinically safe in the short term.
• This method offers potential logistical advantages, enabling daytime transplantation procedures.
• Further multicenter studies are needed to confirm long-term outcomes and broader applicability.