| Abstract: | Experimental en-bloc double lung transplantation was first reported by Dark et al. to broaden the indications for heart-lung and single lung transplantations. They used puppies as an acute model: however primates are optimal in expecting improving survival. In this study we used Taiwan cynomolgus monkeys for 20 enbloc double lung transplants. The animals weighing 2.4-8.0 kgs. were divided into two groups: one with surface cooling and profound hypothermia and the other one with bypass using heart lung machine. For surface cooling group the average ischemic time was 58.5 minutes, and the result was disappointing: The best survivor sustained only 8 hours after transplant, and 5 died on table. In the group with bypass, the perioperative course was rather smooth. The animals could restore their respiratory function after transplant. Postoperative bleeding was the major course of complication. All the animals died within one day. During operation, evidence of tuberculosis and filariasis were observed. While some problems have to be solved before a clinical trial starts, clinical en-bloc double lung transplant is technically feasible. |
