Ex vivo lung perfusion increases the pool of lung grafts: analysis of its potential and real impact on a lung transplant program.

Background. Among the strategies to increase the number of lung transplants, ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) represents a novel technique to expand the donor pool. Methods. Data from donors referred to our center were retrospectively analyzed to identify grafts that could potentially be potentially reconditioned by EVLP and for comparison with those obtained by clinical application of EVLP program in our center. Results. Among 75 rejected lungs, 23 organs have been identified as potentially treatable with EVLP with a hypothetic increase of lung transplant activity of 53%. After the introduction of the EVLP program in our center, lung transplantation with reconditioned grafts was performed in 7 (23%) patients with a 30% increase in transplant procedures. Conclusion. Although less than expected, EVLP increased the number of lungs suitable for transplantation.