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Semin intervent Radiol 2004; 21(4): 283-295
DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-861563
Copyright © 2004 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Interventional Techniques in the Management of Airway Complications Following Lung Transplantation

Nikhil B. Amesur1 , Philip D. Orons2 , Aldo T. Iacono3
  • 1Assistant Professor of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
  • 2Associate Professor of Radiology and Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
  • 3Associate Professor of Medicine and Surgery, Division of Pulmonary Transplant Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Publication History

Publication Date:
07 January 2005 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The last four decades have seen tremendous advances in the field of pulmonary transplantation. Vast improvements in the areas of surgical transplantation techniques, immunosuppressive agents, and postoperative care have all contributed to improved survival of patients. Advances in noninvasive imaging and bronchoscopy have allowed the pulmonary transplant team to intervene early in patients presenting with airway complications, often using minimally invasive procedures such as endobronchial balloon dilation or stent placement, or both. Stent technology itself has also improved and stents may sometimes be customized for treatment of short airway lesions or to optimize continued airflow through the sides of stents by creating openings using balloons or bronchoscopically directed laser. Preliminary work with brachytherapy may be decreasing the need for secondary reinterventions. The authors present an overview of some of these conventional and novel approaches to the treatment of airway complications after lung transplantation.

KEYWORDS

Lung transplantation - bronchus - stenosis

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Nikhil B AmesurM.D. 

Assistant Professor of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center

200 Lothrop Street, Childrens Main Tower 4886

Pittsburgh, PA 15213