Out of the Frying-Pan and into the Fire: Transplant Candidate Selection in Acute Lung Failure Due to SARS-CoV-2 Infection

PURPOSE: The COVID-19 pandemic led to unprecedented rates of acute lung failure (ALF), and a rise in lung transplantation (LTx) referrals. Data on LTx in ALF is limited to LTx outcomes, and the unpredictable course of SARS-CoV-2 makes candidate selection challenging. This study summarizes our experiences, in both patients transplanted and those we declined. METHODS: LTx referrals for ALF due to SARS-CoV-2 between 01Apr20-01Oct21 were reviewed. Set parameters were collected prospectively. Acceptance criteria reflected previous guidance. Cases were discussed at our multi-disciplinary meeting and suitable candidates evaluated at source before transfer for consent and listing. Internal follow-up and external data from declined patients were retrospectively analysed, with survival to discharge and length of hospital stay as end-points. RESULTS: 45 patients were referred (78% male). Median age was 55.8 [IQR 47.6-59.8] years. 36 (80%) required both mechanical ventilation and vvECMO, of median duration 46 [31-82] and 34 [24-72] days respectively. Consolidation was the commonest CT finding (47%). Bacterial colonisation (23/45, 51%), coagulopathy (21/45, 47%) and hepatic dysfunction (11/45, 24%) were common. Twenty-two patients were conscious, of whom 21 were evaluated. Five patients died during evaluation, from either sepsis or bleeding. One failed evaluation, and one withdrew consent. Six patients improved, making urgent LTx unnecessary, with 5 attending our review clinic. Of the 8 patients successfully evaluated, one died unexpectantly awaiting transfer, one improved at listing and a further patient died of sepsis after listing. Three patients underwent LTx, all being discharged home at 3 months post-LTx. CONCLUSION: LTx candidate selection in critically ill SARS-CoV2 patients is challenging. Late recovery, particularly in non-fibrotic ALF is not unusual. Decision-making needs to include “acceptable morbidity” as a prelude to delayed evaluation and perhaps listing. More data is needed about declined candidates, particularly unweanable sedated patients with single-organ failure. Even successful awake recipients may experience significant psychological injury, underlining previous arguments in sedated patients. Equity to all candidates needs consideration, given the extraordinary demands on organ availability and care resources.