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Patient education
- Unparalleled care before and after your transplant

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Introduction

Lung transplantation is a major surgery where one or both lungs are replaced with healthier donor lungs. This option is explored when lung disease worsens despite all medical treatments. Many patients can achieve a normal quality of life with a single lung transplant.

Eligibility for lung transplantation depends on factors such as prior chest surgeries, the specific diagnosis, pulmonary hypertension, infections, and how blood flows to the lungs. The medical and surgical teams will evaluate these factors to determine if a single or double lung transplant is appropriate.

Lung diseases

When someone develops end-stage lung disease, they may experience symptoms like shortness of breath, cough, phlegm, dizziness, and fatigue. Supplemental oxygen through the nasal cannula can help, but for severe cases, lung transplantation may be considered.

A lung transplant may be needed for these health conditions:

Risks

Besides the common potential risks you can encounter after having a lung transplant, such as bleeding, infection, blockage, and rejection, you may also experience:

  • Lifelong use of anti-rejection medications
  • Regular follow-up appointments with the transplant team

Those would include lifestyle changes. However, other potential risks you may face include:

  • Potential side effects from medications
  • Increased risk of infections
  • Higher risk of certain cancers

Responsibilities of a lung transplant recipient

Understand the process

  • Be aware of the risks and benefits involved in lung transplantation.
  • Recognize that lung transplantation is a lifelong commitment.

Teamwork and compliance

  • Be willing to work closely with a multidisciplinary team.
  • Commit to taking medications consistently and correctly.

Lifestyle changes

  • Be prepared to make lifelong changes, including healthier dietary choices.
  • Commit to regular exercise both before and after the transplant.

Support system

  • Have two care providers (family or friends) to support you through the process.

Our team’s commitment

  • Our team includes surgeons, physicians, nurse coordinators, nurse practitioners, dietitians, social workers, physical therapists, pharmacists, and psychologists.
  • We are here to answer your questions and guide you through this life-changing experience.
  • If you are considering lung transplantation, please consult your pulmonologist.
  • We will collaborate with your pulmonologist for further evaluation, and you should be able to visit the lung transplant clinic within a couple of weeks after the referral.

Your first consultation

Preparation

  • Coordinate with your pulmonologist’s office to send the appropriate records ahead of your consultation.
    • Most recent pulmonology clinic notes
    • Most recent pulmonary function test results (from within the last 6 months)
    • Most recent set of basic bloodwork including CBC, CMP, and urinalysis (from within the last 6 months)
    • Images of the most recent CT scan or chest x-ray on a CD (from within the last year)

Barriers for transplant listing

Substance use and history

  • Active smokers (must be nicotine-free for at least six months, including all nicotine products)
  • Active alcohol or substance abuse

Cancer and organ dysfunction

  • Lung cancer or any cancer within the past five years (except nonmelanoma skin cancers)
  • Severe debilitation requiring extended care facilities
  • Advanced heart, kidney or liver disease

Infection and health issues

  • Active infections (e.g., Burkholderia cepacia in cystic fibrosis, multidrug-resistant bacteria, Mycobacterium tuberculosis)
  • Severe esophageal involvement in connective tissue diseases
  • History of non-compliance

Physical and financial limitations

  • Severe deconditioning
  • BMI less than 18 or greater than 30
  • Lack of a strong care provider plan
  • Lack of insurance or resources for post-transplant care

Our caregivers’ responsibilities

Before the transplant

  • A least two caregivers are required to support the patient through the transplant journey.
  • Be present at all pre-transplant appointments, including evaluations and consultations.
  • Be well-informed about the transplant process, understanding the medical procedures, risks, and expectations.

After the transplant

  • Stay in town for a couple of months post-transplant to provide continuous support.
  • Be available during daily medical rounds to stay updated on the patient's progress.
  • Participate in care discussions.
  • Be aware of the patient’s recovery milestones, including any complications or improvements.

After discharge

  • Be available around the clock to assist the patient with their needs, including medication management, transportation, and daily activities.
  • Beyond physical care, caregivers provide crucial emotional support to help the patient cope with the stress and challenges of recovery.
  • Maintain close contact with health care providers to report any concerns and receive guidance on ongoing care.

In addition to the physicians at UF Health, it's important for lung transplant patients to have a support system at home.

Lung transplant survival

The one-year survival rate after lung transplantation is about 85-90%. The five-year survival rate after lung transplantation is about 55-60%. However, these rates might vary over time and from one center to the other. Please refer to the United Network for Organ Sharing, the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network, and the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients for more updated information.

The first visit

Before appointment

  • Meet with our pre-transplant coordinator for lung transplant education.
  • We recommend reviewing the website materials beforehand.
  • You will have plenty of opportunities to ask questions to the lung transplant team.
  • Contact the lung transplant office for the Zoom link.

Information

The pre-transplant coordinator will go over:

  • Lung transplantation process and surgical procedure
  • Lifelong medications and their side effects
  • Importance of strong social support
  • Post-transplant care and follow-up instructions

Appointment overview

  • The initial visit lasts several hours and includes meetings with the pre-transplant coordinator, surgeon, and lung transplant physician.
  • Bring adequate oxygen; oxygen outlets are available in the consultation rooms.
  • Arrive 30 minutes early to have labs drawn.

Tests and assessments

  • You may be asked to complete pulmonary function tests, a six-minute walk test, blood tests (CBC, CMP), and a chest CT scan if they have not been done in the last six months.

Consultation with the physician

The lung transplant physician will:

  • Review your medical records
  • Conduct a physical examination
  • Discuss the risks, benefits, and alternatives of lung transplantation
  • Determine your suitability as a transplant candidate

Next steps

  • If considered a suitable candidate, you will be asked to sign consent forms for the evaluation process.

The pre-transplant clinic will then schedule your one-week evaluation.

Pre-transplant procedure

Evaluation overview

  • A comprehensive evaluation is required to determine your eligibility for lung transplantation. This is conducted over a period of four days.
  • Patients living far from Gainesville should plan to stay in a hotel during the evaluation.
  • The pre-transplant office will provide a detailed schedule for your evaluation.

Oxygen planning

  • Plan for adequate oxygen use while in Gainesville.
  • The hospital provides oxygen outlets during clinical testing. But please bring enough oxygen tanks for travel and hotel use.
  • Consult your local oxygen provider if you are unsure of the amount of oxygen to bring.

Primary caregiver

  • Your primary caregiver must accompany you throughout the evaluation and transplant process.
  • This person will attend all pre-transplant evaluations, clinical appointments, and surgery-related visits.

Pre-transplant coordinator

  • This will be your main contact until the transplantation.
  • They will answer your questions, keep your testing updated, and provide clinical updates to the team.

Evaluation tests

Lung testing

Heart function testing

Blood and urine testing

Other testing

Consultations

Surgeon

  • Discusses the surgical process, identifies any contraindications, and explains the risks, benefits, and alternatives
  • Obtains informed consent and discusses the option of XVIVO consent, if applicable
  • Addresses any concerns from you or your caregiver

Physical therapy assistant

  • Evaluates your overall strength and endurance. Conducts strength test and a six-minute walk test
  • Provides recommendations for safe and effective exercise with advanced lung disease

Financial liaison

  • Assesses your insurance coverage for surgery, postoperative care, immunosuppressive medications, bronchoscopies, etc.

Pharmacist

  • Reviews your current medications, allergies, and intolerance
  • Assesses postoperative care insurance for medications while discussing immunosuppressive and antimicrobial medications, along with potential side effects

Social worker

  • Evaluates adequacy of caregiver support and identifies potential barriers to postoperative care and recovery

Psychologist

  • Assesses any psychological barriers to transplantation and ensures that you and your caregiver understand the transplant process

Gastroenterologist

  • Examines the function of your esophagus and other aspects of your digestive health to ensure that there are no issues that could affect recovery

Dermatologist

  • Conducts a thorough skin examination for any existing skin conditions, stratifies your cancer risk, and advises on precautions and treatments to minimize the risk of complications

Meet our lung transplant team.

Multidisciplinary committee meeting

A team of surgeons, physicians, social workers, financial liaisons, rehab specialists, pharmacists, psychologists, nurse coordinators, and dietitians determine your eligibility for lung transplantation. This multidisciplinary team carefully reviews all aspects of your health to make the best possible decision for your care.

You and your referring pulmonologist will receive the committee’s decision in writing within 10 calendar days.

Possible decisions

Deferred

The committee has decided to delay the decision to list the patient for a transplant.

  • This might occur if additional tests or treatments are needed to better assess the patient’s suitability or to improve their health before being listed.
  • Next steps: Patients will be informed of what needs to be done to revisit the decision. This includes completing specific medical tests, adhering to a treatment plan, or making lifestyle changes.

Listed

The patient has been approved, added to the transplant waiting list, and is now officially waiting for a suitable donor lung.

  • The timing of the transplant will depend on the availability of a donor and the patient’s health status.
  • You will be assigned a Lung Composite Allocation Score (CAS). This determines your priority based on several factors such as diagnosis, oxygen requirement, pulmonary function, and right heart pressure.
  • Next steps: Patients will receive guidance on how to prepare while waiting. This includes attending regular appointments, maintaining health, and staying in close contact with the transplant team.

Denied

The committee has determined that the patient is not a candidate for a lung transplant.

  • This could be due to medical contraindications, the presence of other serious health conditions, or other factors that make the surgery too risky.
  • Next steps: The patient will be provided with alternative treatment options and discuss future possibilities with their health care provider.

Multiple center listing

  • You can be listed for lung transplantation at multiple centers. However, this does not guarantee a shorter wait time.
  • You must complete the evaluation process and meet the listing criteria at each center.
  • You must be approved by insurance.

Follow-up at the pre-transplantation clinic

  • After being listed, you will have monthly follow-up visits at the pre-transplant clinic to update any necessary tests.
  • The monitoring of your Lung Composite Allocation Score (CAS) is based on changes in your clinical status.
  • Notify us immediately of any changes in your condition or if you are admitted to a local hospital.
  • Stay physically fit while waiting for your transplant to aid in recovery.
  • Enroll in a pulmonary rehab program close to home.
  • Sign up at the Pulmonary Wellness Foundation.

Wait time for lung transplantation

  • Wait times vary depending on donor compatibility (blood type, height, etc.). Some patients receive lungs within 24 hours of listing. Others may wait months.
  • Keep the transplant center updated with current contact information and be reachable 24/7. Failure to respond within one hour may result in the lungs being offered to another candidate.
  • Stay within a four-hour driving distance of UF Health Shands Hospital. Have a driver available to take you there when called.
  • If you are planning to travel for 4+ hours, notify your transplant coordinator ASAP.

Updates to provide while on the waitlist

  • Changes in cell phone number or address
  • Changes in clinical condition or hospital admissions
  • Changes in dosages or medication updates
  • Changes to health insurance
  • Worsening symptoms or increased oxygen needs
  • Any blood transfusions or blood product transfusions
  • Illnesses requiring antibiotics
  • Travel plans

Maintaining health while waiting

Physical health

  • Maintain a healthy diet.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Attend pulmonary rehab.
  • Keep your BMI between 17 and 30.
  • Continue routine care with your primary physician.

Mental and emotional health

  • Attend our Adult Lung Transplant Support Group. This is organized by our coordinator and social worker on Wednesday afternoons.
  • For additional support, contact our social worker. They can refer you to mental health professionals if needed.

Once a suitable donor is available

Preparation

  • Keep a packed bag ready at all times.
  • Ensure the transplant center has your current contact information and that you are reachable 24/7.
  • Stay within a four-hour driving distance of the hospital and have a driver on standby.

When called

  • Follow the donor coordinator’s instructions carefully, including fasting requirements.
  • Drive safely and arrive at the specified location.
  • Blood tests and chest X-rays may be performed upon arrival.
  • NOTE: If the lungs do not meet our standards, the surgery may be canceled,. Ensure you have enough oxygen for the return trip if needed (this is known as dry run).

Nutrition before transplant

  • Our dietitian will evaluate your diet and recommend a plan depending on your BMI.
  • Ensure adequate protein intake to maintain muscle strength, especially in breathing muscles.
  • If you have gastroesophageal reflux, have an early supper (at least three hours before bed). You should also avoid snacking before bedtime, and elevate your head with a wedge pillow while sleeping.

Substance use policy

Nicotine

  • Nicotine is strictly prohibited in any form. This includes smoking, chewing, patches, and e-cigarettes.
  • You must be nicotine-free for at least six months prior to listing.
  • Random nicotine tests will be conducted. If you test positive at any point, it may impact your eligibility for a transplant.

Alcohol

  • The use of alcohol is carefully monitored. This includes unexpected sources such as cough syrup or in cooking/baking.

Narcotics

  • Both legal and illegal narcotics are prohibited. This also includes prescription medications like oxycodone.
  • Patients must disclose all medications they are taking. Patients must work with their healthcare provider to manage or eliminate the use of narcotics.

Benzodiazepines

  • Patients should seek alternative treatments for anxiety and other conditions that do not involve benzodiazepine under the guidance of a physician. These medications can interfere with the transplant process.

The procedure

Arrival and pre-surgery preparation

Upon arrival, you will be directed to the cardiothoracic intensive care unit (ICU)

Initial assessments

  • Blood tests, a chest X-ray, and an EKG will be performed
  • The ICU staff will conduct a history and physical examination, including medical reconciliation and allergy review

Consent and consultation

  • The surgical team will obtain your consent for the transplant surgery
  • The anesthesia team will also be consulted

Family instructions

  • Your family and care providers will wait in a designated area during the ICU evaluation
  • The wait time before surgery can vary; it can range from few to several hours

Surgical preparation

Sedation

  • An endotracheal tube will be placed in your airway and connected to a ventilator to assist your breathing during surgery
  • Anesthetic gases will be administered through the ventilator, keeping you unconscious and with pain-free monitoring and support lines
  • An arterial line will be placed in your wrist to closely monitor blood pressure
  • A large-bore IV line will be inserted in your neck to monitor heart pressure (PA catheter)
  • A nasogastric tube (NG tube) will be placed to decompress your stomach
  • A Foley catheter will be inserted to monitor urine output

Cardiopulmonary support

  • In cases of low blood pressure, cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)may be used. These machines slightly increase the risk of stroke and bleeding
  • ECMO may also be required for the first few days' post-surgery if the new lungs are inflamed

Surgical procedure

Lung replacement

  • The damaged lung will be deflated and removed, with the donor lung replacing it. During this process, your other lung will support your breathing
  • For double lung transplants, the process is repeated on the other side

Incisions

The type of surgical incision depends on the number of lungs being transplanted and whether ECMO or CPB is needed:

  • Single Lung Transplantation: A lateral thoracotomy incision is typically made
  • Bilateral Lung Transplantation: A clamshell incision is made, starting at the lower third of the breastbone and extending beneath both breasts

Closure

  • Once the new lungs are in place, the chest is closed in layers
  • Two chest tubes are inserted on each side to keep the lungs inflated and drain fluid
  • The ventilator will continue to assist your breathing

Post-surgery

  • Duration: A single lung transplant takes 4-6 hours, while a double lung transplant takes 8-12 hours
  • Complications: Potential risks include bleeding, infection, stroke, heart attack, kidney, or liver failure

Donors meeting public health service risk criteria

Screening process

CDC high-risk classification

  • Certain donors, identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as high-risk, may have a history of exposure to HIV, incarceration, prostitution, IV drug use, high-risk sexual behavior, or may be hemophiliacs requiring transfusions
  • Additional testing (nucleic acid amplification testing or NAAT) is conducted for HIV and hepatitis in these cases

Informed consent

  • We will inform you if your potential donor is classified as high-risk, and you are allowed the option to decline this donor
  • Refusing a high-risk donor could increase your wait time for a transplant, potentially elevating the risk of death from your lung condition
  • The risk of disease transmission from a high-risk donor with negative NAAT results is very low

Post-transplant monitoring

  • If you accept lungs from a high-risk donor, you will undergo testing for HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C every three months for two years post-transplant
  • Thoroughly discuss this option with your transplant surgeon and pulmonologist

ICU recovery

Post-surgery arrival

  • After the transplant, you will be taken to the ICU on a mechanical ventilator
  • Your care is transferred to an ICU pulmonologist, who will perform a bronchoscopy to evaluate the anastomosis and take cultures
  • You will receive IV medications to support blood pressure

Waking up

  • Once your blood pressure stabilizes, sedation is reduced, allowing you to wake up
  • Pain relief will be provided through IV narcotics, paravertebral catheters, and epidural catheters
  • After these catheters are removed, you will transition to oral pain medications

Breathing assessment

  • The ICU staff will assess your ability to breathe independently
  • Most patients have the breathing tube removed within 24-48 hours, but some may require longer ventilator support
  • Patients who are experiencing complicated recovery may need additional support for several weeks, either by tracheostomy or ventilator

ICU stay

  • A typical ICU stay is around 1-2 weeks after lung transplantation
  • After the breathing tube is removed, you will be encouraged to cough, sit up, and walk around in the ICU
  • You will also use an incentive spirometer to expand your lungs, prevent collapse, and mobilize secretions
  • Bronchoscopies may be performed to clear secretions
  • The chest tubes inserted during surgery will be removed gradually over the next several weeks

Recovery on the floor

Stabilization and transfer

  • Once stable, you will be transferred from the ICU to the recovery floor, where you will stay for 2-3 weeks
  • During this time, you will participate in daily physical therapy at the rehab center

Medication education

  • Transplant coordinators will educate you about your new immunosuppressive medications, including how to manage them effectively

Discharge preparation

  • Prescriptions for your new medications
  • Instructions and education on medications use
  • A blood glucose monitor prescription if needed, with guidance on monitoring your blood sugar
  • Wound care instructions
  • Contact information for your transplant coordinator and an after-hours phone number
  • Details of your next appointment, including spirometry testing, blood tests, and chest X-rays
  • Information on restricted activities and lifestyle changes

Post-discharge recovery

Outpatient therapy

  • After discharge, you will continue physical therapy three days a week at the rehab center
  • Weekly blood work and chest X-rays will be performed before your post-lung transplant clinic visits, where your immunosuppressive medication doses may be adjusted based on blood levels

Lifelong immunosuppression

  • You will take immunosuppressive medications for life to prevent lung rejection
  • Since these medications lower your immune system’s ability to fight infections, it is crucial to:
  • Practice meticulous handwashing, especially in public places
  • Avoid exposure to anyone with a cold, cough, or infection
  • Take prescribed antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals to prevent infections
  • Apply sunscreen and wear sun-protective clothing due to increased photosensitivity from certain medications

Health monitoring

  • Keep a daily log of your blood pressure, temperature, blood sugar, and spirometry readings
  • This log will be reviewed during weekly clinic visits to help adjust your medications as needed

Post-transplant procedure

Pre-clinic visit

  • Blood tests, chest X-ray, and spirometry will be performed to monitor kidney, liver, bone marrow, and lung function.
    • Blood tests and chest X-ray are to be completed before your appointment on a walk-in basis.
    • A formal spirometry will be scheduled.
  • At-home spirometry must be performed daily as it is used to monitor lung function.
    • (1) Blow into the machine.
    • (2) Record the FEV1 value displayed.
    • (3) Record the highest value out of three attempts.

Clinic visit

  • Bring your transport folder, including daily blood pressure logs, temperature, and spirometry, to each visit for review.
    • Accurate records are crucial for tracking health trends and adjusting immunosuppressive medications.
  • Additional tests, such as esophagrams, pH probes, and manometry, may be done to check for microaspiration.
  • It is imperative to take your immunosuppressive medications AFTER bloodwork is drawn.

Nutrition

  • Do not eat undercooked meats or raw seafood.
  • All fruits and vegetables must be washed.
  • Reduce your intake of salt and processed foods.
  • Drink plenty of water (unless told to limit fluids).
  • Do not eat from buffets or salad bars.

Immunizations

  • Do not get live vaccines after transplant due to a weakened immune system.
  • Avoid close contact with anyone who has received a live vaccine for 10-14 days.

Bronchoscopy

  • You will undergo routine bronchoscopies to monitor lung health.
  • These are scheduled at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, and 1 year post-surgery or as indicated.
  • Arrive one hour before your scheduled appointment and bring a driver for transportation after the procedure.
  • Morning procedure:
    • Do not eat or drink after midnight.
    • Take only blood pressure medication with a sip of water; bring other medications with you.
  • Afternoon procedure:
    • You may have a light breakfast and take morning medications.
    • Do not eat or drink after 9 a.m.
  • Post-biopsy:
    • Avoid using the FEV1 meter for three days.
    • Fever is common after the procedure but contact your coordinator if it reaches 100 F or higher.
  • Biopsies may be taken during the bronchoscopy to check for rejection.
    • Please notify the team if you are on prescription blood thinners.
    • If rejection is detected, adjustments to your immunosuppressive medication will be made, and intravenous steroids may be administered.

Pulmonary rehabilitation

  • Attend pulmonary rehab three days a week after discharge or as prescribed.
  • Your progress will be closely monitored and shared with the lung transplant team until cleared.

Returning to normal life after lung transplantation

Follow these important guidelines to protect your health:

Do’s:

  • Contact your coordinator if you experience fever (above 100.5 F), shortness of breath, new cough, fatigue, or declining home spirometry results.
  • Plan ahead by informing your coordinator two weeks before your medications run out.
  • Resume sexual activity when you are comfortable and use birth control.
  • Wear a mask in public and at the hospital to avoid infections.
  • Exercise at home after completing pulmonary rehab.
  • Keep a close eye on your weight and maintain a healthy diet.
  • Use sunscreen (SPF 55+) and wear protective clothing when outdoors, as your medications increase the risk of skin cancer.
  • Shower regularly but avoid soaking your chest wound (wait three months before swimming or using bathtubs).

Don’ts:

  • Avoid pregnancy due to the risks posed by immunosuppressive medications. Use birth control and barrier methods to prevent sexually transmitted diseases.
  • Do not smoke or drink alcohol as they can harm your liver, especially while on antifungal medications.
  • Avoid contact with anyone who is sick, has a cold, or has respiratory symptoms.
  • Do not lift more than 5 pounds or participate in strenuous activities (e.g., golfing, contact sports) for the first three months.
  • Do not drive for the first three months due to medication side effects (tacrolimus, opiates) that lower seizure thresholds.
  • Do not use NSAIDs like ibuprofen or Aleve as they can damage your kidneys while on tacrolimus.
  • Avoid dental procedures or cleanings in the first six months. Take antibiotics before any dental work.
  • Avoid live vaccines for yourself and your immediate family. Instead, get your flu shot and recommended pneumonia vaccines.
  • Do not consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice as they can interact with medications.
  • Avoid gardening as soil contains fungal spores that could affect your lungs.
  • Do not have reptiles or birds as pets and avoid cleaning their litter boxes.

Following these guidelines will protect your new lungs and ensure a smooth recovery. Always consult your transplant team with any questions or concerns.

Laboratory tests

  • Upon discharge, you will have blood tests at UF Health Shands Hospital laboratories, as prescribed by your provider.
  • After returning home, you will have regular blood tests with a local lab (e.g., LabCorp or Quest), and your transplant coordinator will receive your results.

Health screening

  • Continue routine health screenings based on your age and gender:
    • Men: Prostate exams, PSA tests, and colonoscopy
    • Women: PAP smear, breast exams, mammograms, and colonoscopy
  • Immunosuppressive medications like mycophenolate and tacrolimus increase cancer risk, so consistent screening is essential.
  • Your primary care physician will coordinate with the transplant team.

Bone health

  • Lung transplant recipients are at higher risk for osteoporosis due to prednisone use.
    • Get regular Dexa scans and Vitamin D level tests to monitor and treat osteoporosis.
  • Your primary care physician or endocrinologist will help manage your bone health.

Dental health

  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
  • Avoid dental procedures during the first six months after transplantation.
    • Visit your dentist every six months for cleanings.
    • Take antibiotics two hours before dental cleanings.
  • Inform your dentist about your transplant and medications.

Skin protection

  • Due to immunosuppressive medications and sun exposure, lung transplant recipients have a higher risk of skin cancer.
  • Use sunscreen (SPF 55+), and wear long sleeves and a hat when outdoors.
  • Schedule skin checks with a dermatologist every six months to catch any precancerous lesions early.

Pain management

  • Incisional pain may last for several weeks to months post-surgery, and numbness around the incision is common.
  • Pain intensity may fluctuate, especially during rehab.
  • Avoid NSAIDs as they may harm your kidneys.

Equipment needed before hospital discharge

  • Bathroom scale
  • Automatic blood pressure cuff
  • Vitamins:
    • Calcium: 600 mg
    • Vitamin D: 400 IU (Caltrate D or equivalent)
    • Magnesium: 400 mg
  • Digital thermometer
  • Pillbox with four slots/day
  • Pill cutter
  • Extra-strength Tylenol
  • Imodium AD for diarrhea
  • Senokot or MiraLAX for constipation

Key to success

  • Take your medications as directed and ensure routine blood tests.
  • Call your transplant coordinator immediately if you experience fever, infection symptoms, or decreased spirometer readings.

A strong relationship between you, your caregiver, and your coordinator is critical for long-term success. Our team is committed to providing you with the best possible care.

Appointment and referral

Schedule a consultation appointment or refer a patient to see if the UF Health Shands Transplant Center is right for you.

Phone

  • (352) 580-6955

Fax

  • (352) 265-8970

Mailing address

Lung Transplant Program at UF Health Shands Transplant Center
1600 SW Archer Road
PO Box 100223
Gainesville, FL 32610

Office hours

Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

You will be transferred to the on-call coordinator on weekdays after 4:30 p.m. and on weekends.

Telehealth

We are increasing in-person visits while still offering telehealth options for some patients. Your provider will determine if a telehealth appointment is suitable for you.

Thank you for trusting us with your care. We look forward to supporting your health care needs.

Resources and support

For additional resources and support, please visit:

UNOS

HRSA

ALA

UF Videos

UF EMMI Slides

UF Lung Transplant Medication (sharepoint.com)

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