[Pulmonary function tests following single lung homotransplantation in emphysematous dogs (author's transl)]

Experimental emphysema was induced by multiple intratracheal instillation of Papain in a dose of 2 mg/kg body weight in 4 bastard dogs. Development of emphysema was objectivated by pulmonary function tests. Increase of static lung compliance, decrease of lung elastance, and increase of air-way resistance were observed. In addition arterial pO2 decreased while pCO2 remained constant. Following single lung homotransplantation there was an increase of respiratory rate and minute ventilation, the transpulmonary pressure rose in the first postoperative days, static lung compliance was diminished. Four weeks after transplantation typical functional changes of emphysema could be demonstrated concerning the slope and appearance of the compliance loops. Arterial pO2 however remained within the normal range. This functional behaviour does not support the concept of a ventialtion perfusion imbalance after lung transplantation in emphysema patients. Respiratory insufficiency therefore is probably caused by an alveolar type of rejection.