The cost of lung transplantation and the quality of life post-transplant

Current information on lung transplantation indicates that successful lung transplantation largely reverses the energy and physical mobility deficits reported by transplant candidates, and these improvements are sustained for at least several years after transplant. Recipients report improved health perceptions, fewer problems, and greater life satisfaction than candidates. Lung transplantation surgery is an expensive procedure initially, and costs remain high during follow-up. Little information is currently available on long-term quality of life outcomes or on cost-effectiveness. Quality of life and cost measures must be incorporated into large, longitudinal, multicentered clinical trials and observational studies.