BACKGROUNDLung transplantation (LT) is a viable option for patients with end-stage lung diseases, but in China, the supply is limited, and the experience with LT is rare too. This study aimed to evaluate the survival and postoperative complications of recipients undergone LT.

METHODSFrom January 2003 to May 2010, all patients who underwent LT were included. The clinical data of recipients were analyzed retrospectively, including demographic characteristics, survival rate, and the occurrences of postoperative complications, acute rejection and bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome.

RESULTSIn total, 37 patients underwent LT. The early mortality (≤ 30 days) was 14% (5/37). Cumulative survival rate was 78%, 70%, 70% and 42% at 1, 3, 5 and 6 years, respectively. In 37 patients, 5 (14%) developed fungal infections, 9 (24%) pulmonary bacterial infections, and 6 (16%) had bronchial anastomosis complications after LT. At three months post-transplantation, a significant improvement was observed in lung function (P < 0.05). Fifteen recipients (41%) developed acute rejection within the first year. Freedom from bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome was 89%, 85% and 80% at 1, 2 and 3 years after transplantation.

CONCLUSIONSDespite the limited number of cases, the survival and occurrences of complications after LT were comparable to the international experience. Single LT may be a reasonable option for some patients with end-stage pulmonary diseases.