ProtekDuo in Lung Transplant Candidates: Insights From a Single-Center Study of Cases

Right ventricular dysfunction often complicates severe lung disease or arises in patients on venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Hemodynamic instability can disqualify patients awaiting lung transplant (LT). The ProtekDuo cannula, a dual-lumen device, offers simultaneous right ventricle support and oxygenation when connected to an in-line oxygenator.

This single-center retrospective study reviewed patients bridged to LT with a ProtekDuo cannula between June 14, 2021, and January 25, 2024.

ProtekDuo was used in 9 patients, in 6 as a bridge to decision and in 3 as a bridge to transplant. It was the initial support in 5 patients; the rest transitioned from venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation because of right ventricular failure (median, 11 days; interquartile range, 7.5-24 days). Of 7 patients listed for LT, 3 underwent LT; 1 patient was successfully bridged with ProtekDuo alone, whereas 2 patients required alternative support because of complications before LT.

Matching patients with optimal mechanical support remains critical, especially given the high mortality of patients on extracorporeal life support on the LT waitlist. Although the ProtekDuo offers dual organ support, further investigation is needed to establish its role as a bridging strategy.