The Northwestern Medicine Lung Transplant Program is part of the Advanced Lung Disease Program, which offers a multidisciplinary approach to care for patients with advanced lung disease. This means we are committed to providing you with leading-edge, comprehensive, compassionate care.

The Lung Transplant Program brings together a team of experts in the fields of advanced lung disease, including adult cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, interstitial lung disease, primary and secondary pulmonary hypertension, Alpha 1 anti-trypsin deficiency, bronchiectasis, histiocytosis, pulmonary fibrosis and sarcoidosis. Our team has made fundamental discoveries to positively impact the care of patients undergoing lung transplant.

We are committed to providing coordinated, comprehensive care tailored to your needs. In keeping with the Northwestern Medicine value to put patients first in all we do, we also maintain open communication with your referring physician so that they can remain involved in your care. The care team, which includes you and your referring physician, meets regularly and includes:

• Pulmonologists: Pulmonologists specialize in lung disease and other lung conditions that can lead to transplantation. Your pulmonologist will perform a thorough exam, review your past medical history and determine if a transplant is the best treatment choice. In addition, they will help manage your condition before and after lung transplant surgery.
• Transplant anesthesiologists: Anesthesiologists play a key role in your care from the pre-operative evaluation through post-operative care, helping ensure you are insensitive to pain during your procedure.
• Transplant surgeons: Our transplant surgeons specialize in lung transplantation. Your surgeon will work collaboratively with your pulmonologist to determine if transplantation is your best treatment option. They also will explain the procedure and risks associated with the surgery, and will perform your surgery.
• Transplant nurse coordinators: Your transplant nurse coordinator will work closely with you through each step of the transplantation process.
• Transplant pharmacists: Transplant pharmacists have extensive knowledge and experience with medications needed to help prevent organ rejection. They will help you understand your medications’ purposes, potential side effects and interactions with other medications.
• Dietitians: Your dietitian will manage your nutrition throughout the transplant process to support your overall health. They will also help you with any special dietary needs to manage co-existing medical conditions.
• Physical therapists: To help ensure you are in the best possible physical condition before and after surgery, your physical therapist will assess your individual needs and develop a tailored exercise program that allows you to build strength and endurance.
• Pulmonary rehabilitation specialists: Your pulmonary rehabilitation specialist will help with breathing exercises to increase the function of your lungs.
• Referring physicians: Your transplant team will work with your referring physician(s) to provide ongoing care for you after surgery. Maintaining a relationship with your primary care physician and pulmonologist is key, as they will play a vital role in your routine care post-transplant.
• Social workers: Your social worker will be your advocate for any psychosocial needs you have throughout the transplant process.
• Psychologists: Your psychologist will help you understand and cope with the stress of transplant surgery. They have a great deal of experience working with patients before and after lung transplant.
• Patient liaison: Your patient liaison will coordinate and manage your referral to the Northwestern Medicine Lung Transplant Program. They will work to obtain necessary medical records and receive financial clearance prior to your evaluation.