Lung Transplant
A Team of Lung Transplant Specialists Dedicated to You
If you have advanced lung disease, a successful lung transplant may provide the hope you need for a longer, better quality life. At the University of Chicago Medicine, our experienced, compassionate team will carefully evaluate your situation to determine if a lung transplant is the best option for you. You can feel comfortable knowing you’re in the capable, caring hands of a team that always has your best interest in mind — and will support you along the way.
If you have been declined for lung transplant surgery at other centers because of your age or other health conditions, we may be able to help. Our team routinely provides double-lung and multiorgan transplants, as well as lung transplants for people older than 65 or with other medical conditions, as well as those who require a second or third transplant.
How to Refer Patients to UChicago Medicine
Ideally, patients should be referred before they meet criteria for placement on the lung transplant waitlist, so there is adequate time to address factors like weight and diet that can affect outcomes. To refer a patient for evaluation by our team, please call us at 1-773-702-4500.
What conditions lead to lung transplant?
Lung Transplant Team
Whether you need an initial evaluation or a second opinion, the UChicago Medicine lung transplant specialists are here to help. Meet our world-class lung transplant team.
Lung Transplant Process
Our lung transplant team will be with you every step of the way. Starting from your first phone call, we will guide you through evaluation, treatment and recovery.
Request an Appointment
You can also make an appointment with our providers by:
– Requesting an online second opinion from our specialists
To speak to someone directly, please call 1-888-824-0200. If you have symptoms of an urgent nature, please call your doctor or go to the emergency room immediately.
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Types of Lung Transplant
As a leader in complex transplant, UChicago Medicine offers a broad range of single and multi-organ transplants that are not widely available. If you need any of these procedures, our lung transplant specialists may be able to help:
- Single-lung transplant
- Double-lung (bilateral) transplant
- Heart-lung transplant
- Lung-liver transplant
- Lung-kidney transplant
- Second or third lung transplants
Our lung transplant specialists perform single- and double-lung transplants for those with advanced lung disease caused by these conditions. If your lung function is not improving with other treatments, we will work with you to create a care plan based on your preferences and goals.
If you have been declined for lung transplant at other hospitals, we may be able to offer a reason for hope. Because of our innovation and research-driven expertise, we can perform lung transplants for people who are not eligible at other centers because of age, health or other reasons. This includes people who are highly sensitized (meaning they have a higher risk for organ rejection) as well as those with swallowing disorders that can complicate a transplant.
ECMO is a Bridge to Transplant
We have a successful bridge-to-transplant program that saves lives of people awaiting transplant. It utilizes a modified heart-lung machine that both oxygenates and pumps blood, which allows the heart and lungs to rest. This process is called extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Our team has successfully used ECMO to help patients awaiting lung transplant survive when their lungs and/or heart aren’t working as they should.
Why Choose Lung Transplant at UChicago Medicine
At the University of Chicago Medicine, you are our priority. Our attentive team is dedicated to tailoring your care to your unique needs. We take pride in how we set ourselves apart from other transplant centers. When you come to UChicago Medicine for lung transplant, you will find:
A team of experts
We have vast experience with complex lung diseases and the expertise to know what to do in many different scenarios. We also offer second opinions and innovative options for difficult cases. We actively participate in clinical trials and research to improve outcomes for all our lung transplant patients.
Active organ matching team
We are leading a dedicated, concerted effort to get viable lungs for those who need them. Our efforts have decreased waiting times for lung transplantation surgery.
Support for Latino patients
Our Latino transplant program is one of only a few in the country dedicated to supporting Latino and Hispanic patients and families. Our Spanish-speaking surgeons, nurses and intake coordinators are here to offer education in your native language while being sensitive to your specific needs.
Help for international patients
The Center for International Patients helps coordinate care and accommodations for patients traveling from other countries. Our travel and concierge services can also help you if you live outside the Chicago area and are traveling to UChicago Medicine for evaluation or treatment.
Bloodless transplant program
Our transplant team includes experts who can provide transplants that does not use blood transfusions. This may be an option if you do not want to receive blood or blood products because of religious beliefs.
Research and Clinical Trials
