Purpose
Dead space fraction (DSF) correlates with disease severity in cases of pulmonary embolism (PE) and lung injury, and with mortality in acute respiratory distress syndrome. We sought to determine the relationship between DSF and donor lung transplant suitability during clinical ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP).
Methods
DSF was calculated in 80 consecutive double lung cases undergoing acellular EVLP from 6/2019 to 8/2021 in our department. 53 cases were judged suitable for transplant. End-tidal CO2 and CO2 levels in perfusate were measured, and DSF stratified into quartiles (Q1, lowest; Q4, highest). DSF was calculated using the following formula: (PCO2 in left atrium - End tidal CO2) / PCO2 in left atrium.
Results
Tobacco use history correlated with significantly higher DSF (vs. no tobacco use history, (p < 0.05). Presence of PE also correlated with higher DSF (p < 0.05). Lungs in the highest DSF quartile (Q4) displayed significantly higher peak airway pressure, lower PaO2/FiO2, and lower dynamic compliance during EVLP (p < 0.01, each; Figure A-D). The Q4 DSF group also had higher lung weight following EVLP (p < 0.05). Transplant suitability decreased with higher DSF; 85% (17/20 cases) of Q1, 85% (17/20 cases) of Q2, 60% (12/20 cases) of Q3, and 35% (7/20 cases) of Q4 (p < 0.01, Figure E) lungs were suitable for transplant. Of the 53 EVLP cases transplanted, 30-day recipient survival was 98% and the incidence of Grades 0, 1, 2, and 3 primary graft dysfunction at 72 hours was 19%, 57%, 13%, and 6%, respectively with 3 ungradable cases.
Conclusion
In human lungs undergoing acellular EVLP, higher DSF correlates with decreased transplant suitability. Further studies are needed to establish mechanisms by which high DSF contributes to lower transplant suitability.
Article info
Identification
Copyright
© 2022 Published by Elsevier Inc.
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