Lung Transplantation for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Abstract

Given its high prevalence and propensity to cause disabling disease, it is not surprising that COPD represents the most common indication worldwide for lung transplantation, accounting for nearly half of all lung transplant procedures. Despite over 4 decades of experience with this procedure in the COPD population, a number of important clinical issues remain unresolved. This article provides an overview of lung transplantation, with special emphasis on issues unique to the COPD population.