A new machine designed to keep donated lungs viable outside the body could dramatically improve lung transplant rates in the UK. Currently, only 23% of donated lungs are used, leaving many patients waiting for transplants, with some facing long delays that can lead to fatal outcomes. The XVIVO perfusion system, endorsed by NICE, has the potential to save four out of five lungs that would otherwise go to waste.
This technology works by warming the lungs to body temperature and circulating a fluid that mimics blood plasma, allowing medical teams to monitor and treat the organs effectively. By extending the viability of lungs, the machine could significantly increase the number of transplants performed, addressing a critical shortage in the UK, which has one of the lowest lung transplant rates in Europe.
The draft guidance from NICE aims to ensure that all transplant centres can access this technology, potentially transforming the landscape of lung health in the UK. Experts believe that this could not only save lives but also improve the quality of life for patients suffering from serious lung conditions.
As the trial progresses, the focus will be on generating robust evidence of the machine’s impact on transplant activity. If successful, it could lead to a paradigm shift in how lung transplants are managed, ensuring that more patients receive the timely care they need.
Source: The Guardian
