Lungs are the main organ of the respiratory system. They are located inside the rib cage in front of the spine on both sides of the heart, where the lungs provide the body with oxygen and get rid of carbon dioxide.

Lung functions:

The function of the lungs is taking oxygen and diverting it into the bloodstream. Lungs excrete carbon dioxide from the blood outside the body.

Facts about the Lungs:

• The efficiency of the lungs and the speed of oxygen transport around the body increase in people who regularly exercise.
• The right lung is larger than the left lung.
• Lungs are the only organ in the human body that can float on water.

Reasons that require a lung transplant:

A person may need Lung Transplant in case the lungs get damaged due to any disease, which makes it difficult for the body to obtain the oxygen it needs to perform vital functions.

Diseases that may lead to need of a Lung transplant:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
• Pulmonary fibrosis.
• Cystic fibrosis.
• High blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary hypertension).

Ways to Prevent Lung Diseases:

• Avoid smoking.
• Regular body exercise.
• Maintaining ideal weight.
• Regular hand washing to avoid infection.
• Drink plenty of water.

Conditions for donating lungs:

A person can be willing to donate their organs after death, including the lungs, by registering their desire through the Tawakkalna application and sharing this desire with their family.

What is the lung transplant process?

It is a surgical procedure in which damaged lungs are replaced with healthy ones, often for patients who have decreased response to medication when the lungs are received from a brain- dead donor.

Types of lung transplant:

There are three types of lung transplantation. The appropriate procedure for the patient is determined by the medical team according to the patient’s medical condition:

1. Single lung transplant.
2. Transplantation of both lungs together.
3. Lung and heart transplantation together.

How long does the lung tissue remain suitable for transplantation in the patient's body after being removed from the body of the donor?

The lung must be transplanted into the patient’s body after being removed from the donor’s body within 6 hours.

The most important Post-Lung Transplantation Guidelines:

• After the lung transplantation surgery, the patient will remain in the intensive care unit for 1-5 days.
• The patient can leave the hospital within 2-3 weeks after the lung transplant. This period is determined and approved by the medical team.
• During the first 6 weeks after the lung transplant, the patient should avoid pushing, pulling, or carrying anything heavy.
• After the lung transplantation, the patient will join a rehabilitation program that includes exercises to build strength.
• The patient can return to work after the lung transplant within 4-5 months, and the period may vary according to the type of work.
• Immunosuppressive medications are prescribed to prevent the patient's body from rejecting the transplanted organ.
• The patient must maintain personal hygiene.
• Regular hand washing with soap and water is necessary, especially before preparing and consuming food.
• Extra care should be taken with the skin to prevent the occurrence of wounds.
• It is necessary to adhere to the scheduled appointments with the medical team.

Lung Transplant Contraindications:

• The presence of active infection.
• Having a history of recent cancer.
• Presence of serious diseases such as kidney, liver, or heart diseases in the patient.
• Unwilling or unable to make lifestyle changes to maintain the health of the transplanted lung.
• Inability to quit smoking.
• Inability to maintain ideal body weight.
• A lack of supportive individuals from the patient's family and friends.

Complications of Lung Transplantation Surgery:

• Bleeding.
• Blood clots.
• Infection.
• Graft rejection.
• Side effects of immunosuppressive medications.