Lung transplants are a complex procedure and often involve a patient undergoing major surgery. Unfortunately, the success of a lung transplant is often limited by the patient's body’s ability to reject the new organ. The average life expectancy of a lung transplant is 5 years, but this can vary depending on the individual. In this article, we will explore why lung transplants only last 5 years and what can be done to improve the longevity of the transplant.
Rejection of the Transplant
One of the primary reasons why lung transplants are only expected to last 5 years is because the body can reject the transplant. The patient’s immune system may recognize the new organ as foreign and attack it, which can lead to serious complications or even death. To reduce the risk of rejection, doctors will often give the patient medication to suppress the immune system. This medication can help reduce the risk of organ rejection, but it also increases the risk of infection.
Organ Damage
Another reason why lung transplants are only expected to last 5 years is because the organ can become damaged over time. The patient’s body may be unable to repair the organ or the organ may become infected or suffer from other complications. In addition, the lungs may become scarred due to the surgery, which can reduce their function and make them less effective.
Medication Side Effects
The medication that is used to suppress the immune system can also have side effects that can contribute to the short lifespan of a lung transplant. These side effects can include increased risk of infection, kidney damage, and increased risk of cancer.
Improving the Lifespan of a Lung Transplant
In order to improve the lifespan of a lung transplant, doctors and researchers are working to develop better medications and treatments. For example, stem cell therapy is being studied as a way to improve the body’s ability to accept a new organ. In addition, doctors are looking into using gene therapy to help reduce the risk of organ rejection.
Overall, lung transplants have a limited lifespan of 5 years. However, with advances in medical technology and treatments, there is hope that the lifespan of a lung transplant can be extended in the future.