The USC cardiopulmonary transplant team, headed by Vaughn A. Starnes, M.D., is composed of experts in their respective fields of cardiothoracic surgery, cardiology, pulmonary medicine, immunology, critical care medicine, cystic fibrosis, immunosuppression, and rehabilitation. Dr. Starnes is a world-recognized leader and innovator in heart, heart-lung, and lung transplantation, and cardiothoracic surgery. Keck Hospital of USC is certified for Medicare for lung transplantation.

Lung Transplantation

Pulmonary (lung) transplantation has become a viable treatment option for patients with end stage cardiopulmonary disease. Patients eligible for pulmonary transplantation include any person who is severely debilitated by cardiopulmonary disease and is not hampered by any other organ system dysfunction. Candidates frequently have the diagnosis of obstructive lung disease, such as:

• Emphysema
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Bronchiectasis
• Pulmonary hypertension (both primary and secondary)
• Pulmonary fibrosis (e.g. sarcoidosis, IPF, silicosis)

Restrictions to transplantation include:

• Severe obesity
• Active neoplastic disease
• Systemic or untreatable local infection
• Tobacco or drug dependency
• Lack of adequate support systems
• The inability to comply with a strict medical regimen

Patients on chronic mechanical ventilation will be considered on a case by-case-basis.

Living-related lobar transplantation was pioneered by Dr. Starnes at Keck Hospital of USC and provides an alternative therapy for severely ill patients who are unlikely to survive the waiting that is often required for deceased-donated organs to be available. Strict criteria must be met before a patient can qualify for these living related procedures.

Our comprehensive program includes constant transplant team communication with patient/family regarding all aspects of patients’ medical care.

USC Cardiothoracic Surgery Lung Transplant Program