Severe reperfusion lung injury after double lung transplantation

Aim: To demonstrate the effects of combined inhaled nitric oxide and surfactant replacement as treatment for acute respiratory distress syndrome. This treatment has not previously been documented for reperfusion injury after double lung transplantation. Method: A 24-year-old female with cystic fibrosis underwent double lung transplantation. During implantation of the second lung a marked increase in pulmonary artery pressure associated with systemic hypotension, hypoxemia and low cardiac output were observed. Notwithstanding the patient received support from cardiovascular drugs and pulmonary vasodilators cardiopulmonary by-pass was necessary. In the intensive care unit the patient received the same drug support, inhaled nitric oxide and two bronchoscopic applications of bovine surfactant. Results: A rapid improvement in PaO2/FiO2 within 2–3 hours of administration of surfactant was seen. The patient is well at follow-up 1 year post-transplant. Conclusion: There is a potential role for a combined therapy with inhaled nitric oxide and surfactant replacement in reperfusion injury after lung transplantation.