Respiratory care clinics of North America
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Respir Care Clin N Am · Dec 2004
Review Comparative StudyThe role of bronchoscopy in the management of lung transplant recipients.
Bronchoscopy is an integral piece in the complex multidisciplinary approach to the care of lung transplant recipients. Although the use of surveillance bronchoscopies is controversial, bronchoscopy undoubtedly provides valuable information in patients with respiratory symptoms or functional decline. ⋯ The objectives of the research should be to increase the yield of bronchoscopy, improve its safety, and decrease procedure-related discomfort. Only randomized, multicenter clinical trials with full commitment from lung transplant centers can accomplish these goals.
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Respir Care Clin N Am · Dec 2004
Review Comparative StudySurgical considerations in lung transplantation: transplant operation and early postoperative management.
During the last 20 years improvements in perioperative care have led to improved outcomes for lung transplant recipients. Although uncommon, technical complications can be the source of significant morbidity and mortality. Infections and ischemia-reperfusion injury continue to have the greatest impact on short-term outcomes of lung transplant recipients, and research into the prevention and treatment of these two entities will be necessary to improve these patients' outcomes significantly.