Lung Transplantation in India: a Brief Review, Landmarks, Indian Scenario, and our Experience

Abstract

Lung transplantation is gaining widespread acceptance as the preferred therapeutic option for selected cases of end-stage lung disease in India. The indications of lung transplantation are increasing, with better post-operative survival, including the COVID affected lung, if we choose our patients well. The national acceptance of expanded criteria in lung donation, streamlining of the process of lung transplantation by governmental, and non-governmental organizations and significant increase in the number of organ donations in India have strengthened the lung transplantation program within the country. Through this article, we describe a brief history, the process, and our experience of lung transplantation since we started our program in 2017 until date.

Global challenges and disparities of care for interstitial lung disease

“…The scarcity of functional transplant programs is compounded by high out‐of‐pocket costs and limited organ donations. Despite these challenges, ongoing efforts and patient assistance initiatives have been launched 12 …”

“…Despite these challenges, ongoing efforts and patient assistance initiatives have been launched. 12 Higher levels of public awareness and education in HICs facilitate compliance in treatment and follow-up in patients with ILD. MICs and LICs encounter challenges in awareness due to limited educational resources and competing healthcare priorities.…”