Performing under pressure: Maintenance of donor lung pressure during cabin depressurization

Maintenance of donor lung pressure is recommended to maintain inflation pressures of 12-15 mmHg. This is particularly important given graft transportation in aircraft, due to the inevitable pressure changes. We describe a case of a donor lung preservation system which maintained proper airway pressure during sudden cabin pressure loss requiring emergent landing. The donor lungs were implanted without complication. Post-transplant course was notable for PGD grade 1 at 24 hours, grade 2 at 48 hours, and grade 1 at 72 hours. At three months post-transplant the patient has had no respiratory complications and has been noted to be doing well.