ECMO for Lung Transplantation in Cystic Fibrosis Patients

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common genetically inherited disease in the Caucasian population. Bilateral lung transplantation (LUTX) is a viable option for these patients. Frequently, the surgical operation of LUTX is complicated by hemodynamic instability, intractable hypoxia and respiratory acidosis. For these reasons, Intraoperative extracorporeal life support - ECLS- is required. Data on predictors of use of intraoperative ECLS in CF patients undergoing LUTX is scarce. Aim of this retrospective observational study was 1) to find possible risk factors at the time of enlistment associated with the intraoperative use of ECLS and 2) to compare the outcomes of CF patients treated with ECLS during LUTX or not.