Organ donation overhaul Feb 16, 2008
Director of lung transplantation at St Vincent's Hospital, associate professor Allan Glanville, said there was a risk involved with the latest move. He said it might be as ineffective as every other failed attempt to increase transplant rates, all tried in the past 15 years. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Australia)
Race Matters For Patients Awaiting Lung Transplants Feb 16, 2008
" Blacks were also less likely to have private insurance and more likely to live in poorer neighborhoods. Greater cardiovascular risk factors, such as diabetes, pulmonary hypertension and lower six-minute walk distances were observed in blacks compared to whites. However, even these factors did not account for the differences between the two groups regarding lung transplantation. "Differences in insurance, socioeconomic status and cardiovascular risk factors explained some but not all of the... (Medical News Today)
Former Substance Abusers Rarely Relapse After Organ Transplantation Feb 6, 2008
4, 2008) A new study shows that select patients age 65 and older can safely undergo lung transplantation and have acceptable outcomes. Findings suggest that age should not preclude patients from the. (Science Daily)
Good Outcomes For Older Lung Transplant Patients Feb 5, 2008
A new UCLA Medical Center study shows that select patients age 65 and older can safely undergo lung transplantation and have acceptable outcomes ... "We wanted to define the short- and medium-term outcomes of lung transplantation in these older patients to determine whether the outcomes were acceptable." ... "In addition, future studies should look at the effects of lung transplantation in older recipients on the donor pool and on other, younger patients on the waiting list.". (Science Daily)
Surgeons: Raise heart transplant standards Feb 3, 2008
Our results clearly demonstrate that current standards have been arbitrarily set too low, says Conte, director of heart and lung transplantation at Hopkins. There is a certain threshold, a minimum number of surgeries needed to maintain the expertise of the entire transplant team. (Baltimore Examiner)
Heart Transplants: Do More Or Do None, New Study Suggests Feb 2, 2008
"Our results clearly demonstrate that current standards have been arbitrarily set too low," says Conte, who is director of heart and lung transplantation at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. "There is a certain threshold, a minimum number of surgeries needed to maintain the expertise of the entire transplant team," he says, noting that a dozen or more highly specialized professionals are involved in each transplant case, including cardiac surgeons, cardiologists, anesthesiologists, transplant... (Science Daily)
Downsized Heart Aids Bypass Surgery Jan 30, 2008
"Remodeling the heart can restore the heart to its normal, elliptical shape, lowering the pressure buildup inside the heart cavity, reducing the amount of oxygen and energy needed by the muscle to keep pumping, and allowing the heart to work normally." says Conte, director of heart and lung transplantation at Hopkins. Both CABG and SVR are covered by Medicare and by most health insurance plans. (Science Daily)
A heart for transplant patients Jan 18, 2008
"He is conducting innovative research on topics such as safer cardiopulmonary bypass and clinically improved lung transplantation.". Pages: 1. (San Antonio Business Journal, TX)
Edwards and Organ Transplants Jan 11, 2008
A study in the Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation compared statistics on heart transplants over the mid 1990s. It found patients were more likely to receive hearts in the U.S., even when they were older and sicker. (Wall Street Journal)
Hospitalizations soar for deadly lung disease Jan 2, 2008
That makes the disease the most common reason for lung transplantation after scarring from pulmonary fibrosis, according to data from the United Network for Organ Sharing. The study, led by Chaya Merrill, found that hospital admissions for pulmonary hypertension increased more than 50% from 1997 to 2005, from 301,400 to 456,500. (USA Today)
Molecular Pathway Appears Crucial In Development Of Pulmonary Fibrosis Dec 15, 2007
16, 2006) For idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients awaiting lung transplantation, a simple walk test can predict mortality rates. A new study found that individuals with IPF who cover less than 680 feet. (Science Daily)
Organ donor reality falling short of hopes Dec 2, 2007
But waiting times for transplants can be lengthy, and the longer you wait the worse you are likely to fare, says associate professor Allan Glanville, director of lung transplantation at Sydney's St Vincent's Hospital. "Mortality rates on transplant waiting lists are 15 to 20 per cent, so the lack of donors means that if you have a rapidly progressing disease you may not survive to obtain a transplant," Glanville says. (The Australian)
Lungs' Pressure Needn't Threaten Heart Transplant Survival Nov 28, 2007
"Improved technology, such as the use of heart pumps, and better management of drug therapy have really bought us time to help our patients get better and lead long-lasting lives," says Conte, director of the heart and lung transplantation at Hopkins and an associate professor of surgery. According to UNOS, average survival rates in men and women one year after heart transplantation were 85 percent in 2006. (Science Daily)
Alcohol may amplify chronic rejection in lung transplants Nov 28, 2007
In lung transplantation, chronic rejection comes in the form of obliterative bronchiolitis, a slow destruction of the lung followed by remodeling of the lung into scar tissue and irreversible airflow limitation. "Chronic rejection remains the major barrier to successful lung transplantation and unfortunately, suppressing the immune system doesn't change the outcome," he says ... Lung transplantation treats the end stage of several diseases, including emphysema and cystic fibrosis. (EurekAlert!)
Lung Transplant Not the Best Solution for Cystic Fibrosis Nov 25, 2007
The study lead by the University of Utah researchers looked through the entire U.S. pediatric experience with lung transplantation for CF between 1992 and 2002 ... A number of 248 children, suffering from CF, who were on the waiting list during the 10-year-period, underwent lung transplantation ... Only five children had a significant estimated benefit following the lung transplantation. (eFluxMedia)
Lung Transplants Bring More Harm Than Good To Children With Cystic Fibrosis, Study Suggests Nov 24, 2007
23, 2007) Lung transplantation, the therapy almost every cystic fibrosis patient (CF) considers at some point to prolong survival, rarely helps children with the disease live longer and, in fact, often increases their risk of dying, University of Utah researchers conclude in the most extensive study of the issue to date ... Published in the Nov. 22 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine, the study analyzed the largest data set ever constructed of children with CF--514 patients, 18 and... (Science Daily)
Lung transplant rarely prolongs life in CF Nov 23, 2007
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Lung transplantation in children with cystic fibrosis (CF) is not likely to prolong life and may do more harm than good, according to a look back at essentially the entire U.S. pediatric experience with lung transplantation for cystic fibrosis for the period 1992 through 2002. According to a report in November 22 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine, a total of 248 of the 514 children with cystic fibrosis who were on the waiting list during the 10-year-period... (Reuters)
Pediatric Pulmonary Expert Comments on Study of Lung Transplants for Cystic Fibrosis Nov 22, 2007
PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 21 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Commenting on a study of lung transplantation for children with cystic fibrosis, a leading pediatric pulmonologist calls the study "startling" in an editorial in this week's New England Journal of Medicine that accompanies the study ... "The study's results make it clear that physicians must be more judicious than ever in referring children with cystic fibrosis for lung transplantation, with careful consideration of the severity of the child's... (PR Newswire)
Lung Transplants May Not Help Most Cystic Fibrosis Children Nov 22, 2007
The researchers found a significant estimated benefit for only five of those who had transplants, with "a significant risk of harm" associated with lung transplantation for 315 of the young patients, meaning that other treatment would have benefited them more. The process has changed since the study was conducted, partly in ways that work against transplantation, Liou noted. (Health-Finder)
Lung Transplantation and Survival in Children with Cystic Fibrosis Nov 22, 2007
Background The effects of lung transplantation on the survival and quality of life in children with cystic fibrosis are uncertain. Methods We used data from the U.S. Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Patient Registry and from the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network to identify children with cystic fibrosis who were on the waiting list for lung transplantation during the period from 1992 through 2002 ... We performed proportional-hazards survival modeling, using multiple clinically relevant... (New England Journal of Medicine)
Lung Transplantation in Cystic Fibrosis — Primum Non Nocere? Nov 22, 2007
NEJM -- Lung Transplantation in Cystic Fibrosis -- Primum Non Nocere ... Lung Transplantation in Cystic Fibrosis Primum Non Nocere. (New England Journal of Medicine)
A horse for Zoey Nov 21, 2007
Ultimately, lung transplantation is often necessary as CF worsens. While it seems like a grim diagnosis, Janine is appreciative of the fact that by at least having a diagnosis, Zoey can be treated with the latest methods. (Chetek Alert, WI)
Surgeons at pioneering heart unit face inquiry over deaths Nov 3, 2007
Although heart transplant operations have been suspended at Papworth, the hospital said all other services, including lung transplantation, were unaffected and will continue as normal. A centre of excellence in cardiac care. (Independent)
Papworth halts heart transplants Nov 2, 2007
Lung transplantation work and other operations are being carried out as normal ... "We would like to reassure everyone this review applies to routine heart transplantation only. "Lung transplantation and all of our other work continues as normal and we expect the review to be completed within two weeks. (BBC News -- UK)
Monster.com founder gives Emory $5.4 million Sep 11, 2007
The grant from Andrew McKelvey will help pay for research and new laboratories at the Andrew McKelvey Lung Transplantation Center at the Emory School of Medicine. RELATED LINK. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution)
UPMC begins study of heart support device as a bridge to transplantation May 22, 2007
He is a leading authority in the mechanics of end-stage heart failure and recently chaired a symposium with members of the FDA on adverse reactions to investigational devices at the 27th Annual International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation meeting. . (EurekAlert!)
Pulmonary-Artery Dissection in Patients with Eisenmenger’s Syndrome May 17, 2007
Heart lung transplantation has been performed in patients in the chronic phase of the disease. 2 However, we suggest that the early, high mortality rate associated with Eisenmenger's syndrome warrants urgent conventional repair of the pulmonary artery. (New England Journal of Medicine)
Webcast Alert: CPF 'Living with IPF' Patient Seminar to be Webcast Live May 12, 2007 May 9, 2007
The "Living with IPF" patient seminar will be held Saturday, May 12, 2007 from 12:50 - 5:30 P.M. EDT, and be viewed by visiting The seminar will address IPF diagnosis, current standards of care, lung transplantation, oxygen management and pulmonary rehabilitation, life management issues, and resources and support services available for IPF patients and their families. The CPF is unable to provide technical support for the event's Webcast Technical Support is only available by email through... (PR Newswire)
Heart Transplant Patients Benefit From New Approach To Immunosuppression, According To Mayo Clinic Apr 27, 2007
Mayo researchers reported their findings at The International Society for Heart & Lung Transplantation Annual Meeting and Scientific Session in San Francisco. Note: This story has been adapted from a news release issued by Mayo Clinic. (Science Daily)
Waiting For A Transplant? Finding A Fair System For Organ Allocation Apr 27, 2007
The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) announces evaluation of a new mathematical modeling system for lung allocation in the United States and the ethical issues surrounding organ allocation facing patients awaiting transplants ... Note: This story has been adapted from a news release issued by International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. (Science Daily)
ISHLT membership explores expansion of computer modeling system for organ allocation Apr 26, 2007
San Francisco, CA, April 25, 2007 - The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) announces evaluation of a new mathematical modeling system for lung allocation in the United States and the ethical issues surrounding organ allocation facing patients awaiting transplants ... The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of the science and treatment of end-stage heart and lung diseases. (EurekAlert!)
Step Toward Reducing Organ Transplant Rejection Mar 11, 2007
"The study appears in the April issue of the Journal of Clinical Investigation. MSCs are widely seen as a potential source of therapies for numerous diseases and conditions, such as heart disease, cystic fibrosis, graft-versus-host disease, muscular dystrophy, and as a possible source for improved recovery of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Lama's laboratory currently is working on another study involving the lung-derived MSCs that shows potential importance of these cells in lung... (Science Daily)
Type of stem cell found to reside in transplanted lungs Mar 9, 2007
" The study appears online March 8 in advance of publication in the April print issue of the Journal of Clinical Investigation. MSCs are widely seen as a potential source of therapies for numerous diseases and conditions, such as heart disease, cystic fibrosis, graft-versus-host disease, muscular dystrophy, and as a possible source for improved recovery of cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Lamas laboratory currently is working on another study involving the lung-derived MSCs that shows... (EurekAlert!)
Primary Graft Dysfunction Is Risk Factor For A Later Serious Lung Transplant Problem Mar 4, 2007
The researchers graded the severity of subjects' primary graft dysfunction according to the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) definition. Those who did not have primary graft dysfunction immediately after transplantation were classified grade 0, while those with more severe graft dysfunction received a 1, 2 or 3. (Science Daily)
Artificial lung used as transplant bridge Feb 15, 2007
"This has taken lung transplantation and the number of patients we can save to a new height," said Dr. Shaf Keshavjee, director of the lung transplant program at Toronto General Hospital, one of three hospitals that make up the University Hospital Network. The hospital is planning a clinical trial using the Novalung to help them and others determine the best uses for the device, which could serve both as a temporary lung replacement until transplantation and as a way to take the strain... (Toronto Star)
The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Named Number One Pediatric Hospital in the U.S. by Child Magazine Jan 4, 2007
The Division has extensive expertise in managing complex end-stage lung diseases and in lung transplantation. The team believes in a holistic, multidisciplinary approach that utilizes the talents of many healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurse practitioners, social workers, nutritionists, respiratory therapists and physical therapists. (PR Newswire)
New Treatment Hope For Systemic Sclerosis Dec 30, 2006
Lung transplantation has been the only definite treatment option for this progressive disease with. . (Science Daily)
Transplant programs penalized Nov 29, 2006
"It's about time," said Dr. Mark L. Barr, past president of the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation and a cardiothoracic transplant surgeon at USC.. The poor performance of many transplant centers is no secret. (Los Angeles Times)
Proteins May Predict Lung Transplant Rejection Nov 5, 2006
(May 25, 2004) -- Lung transplantation increases the survival of patients with cystic fibrosis by almost 4. 5 years on average, according to a study presented at the American Thoracic Society International Conference. (Science Daily)
Simple, Noninvasive Test Measures Survival Time In Adult Pulmonary Hypertension Nov 4, 2006
(September 16, 2006) -- For idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients awaiting lung transplantation, a simple walk test can predict mortality rates. A new study found that individuals with IPF who cover less than 680 feet. (Science Daily)
Raising chances for new heart Oct 17, 2006
That's why he agreed to lead a task force, assembled by the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation, to write the first set of uniform, science-based guidelines for selecting transplant patients ... The guidelines were published last month in the society's Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation ... But Mehra expects the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation's influence in the medical community to lead to their adoption over the next three years by hospitals... (SunSpot.net)
New international guidelines for heart transplant candidates standardize patient care Sep 16, 2006
The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) announces the release of the first international guidelines for heart failure patient management, particularly prior to heart transplantation, published in this month's edition of the Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation (September 2006) ... The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of the science and treatment of end-stage heart and... (EurekAlert!)
Shorter distance on six-minute walk test points up a greater risk of death Sep 16, 2006
For idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) patients awaiting lung transplantation, a simple walk test can predict mortality rates ... To date, lung transplantation is the only medical therapy that has been shown to improve survival ... "A total of 209 patients had a six-month follow-up without undergoing lung transplantation," said Dr. Lederer. (EurekAlert!)
US Organ Transplant Centers Come Under Critisism Jun 30, 2006
Dr. Mark L. Barr, a cardiothoracic transplant surgeon and president of the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation, states: "The bottom line message is that there are too many programs in the United States that need to be shut down.". 219 reads Copyright 2006 DogFlu. (Dog Flu Diet and Diseases)
Inhaled Cyclosporine in Lung Transplantation Apr 20, 2006
Although the authors found that inhaled cyclosporine reduced the two- and three-year prevalence of the bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome, as compared with placebo, it is very surprising in the modern era of lung transplantation to find such a high prevalence of this syndrome: about 70 and 65 percent after two and three years, respectively, in the treated group, on the basis of spirometry, as compared with 50 and 30 percent, respectively, in. . (New England Journal of Medicine)
Thoratec Announces Preliminary First Quarter Results Apr 13, 2006
We believe the patient outcomes continue to be positive, as evidenced by recent data presented at meetings of the American College of Cardiology and the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. " The company also indicated that it experienced lower than expected sales at ITC, primarily in the hospital point-of-care sector. It said it believes that much of this reflects the timing of orders, rather than a change in market conditions. ITC also faced some short-term order... (PR Newswire)
Ventricular Assist Devices and Their Use in Destination Therapy to Be Discussed at the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation Conference in Madrid Apr 5, 2006
April 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Thoratec(R) Corporation (Nasdaq: ) today announced that two presentations on the HeartMate(R) II left ventricular assist system (LVAS) will be given at the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation Conference in Madrid, Spain. Two sessions will also be presented on Destination Therapy, or the permanent support of late-stage heart failure patients who are not eligible for heart transplantation. (PR Newswire)
Norman Shumway Feb 16, 2006
He also developed lung transplantation. After it became clear that it was impossible to transplant lungs without also transplanting the heart, he and his colleague Bruce Reitz performed the first heart-lung transplant, in 1981. (The Independent, UK)
Norman Shumway, Heart Transplantation Pioneer, Dies at 83 Feb 11, 2006
In 1980, he was named honorary president for life by the International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation. He also has received the Scientific Achievement Award from the American Association for Thoracic Surgery, the American Surgical Association, and the American Medical Association, as well as the Trustees Medal for Distinguished Achievement from Massachusetts General Hospital, to name a few. (Genetic Engineering News)
