A Member of the University of Maryland Medical System | In Partnership with the University of Maryland School of Medicine
Email
Print
Lung Transplant Program | About Us | What to Expect | Frequently Asked Questions | Transplant Team | Support Group | Patient Success Stories
The University of Maryland Medical Center's Lung Transplantation Program has saved the lives of dozens of patients who received transplants. By replacing lungs which have ceased to function effectively, the program has given new life -- new energy and new possibilities -- to people whose lives had been restricted by debilitating conditions.
In addition, the lives of hundreds of other patients have been greatly improved by identifying other treatments that successfully postponed or prevented the need for transplant.
UM Lung Transplant Program medical director Aldo Iacono, M.D., has been professionally involved as a physician in lung transplantation since 1992. A recognized lung transplant expert, Dr. Iacono has developed the only treatment shown to prevent chronic rejection after lung transplantation proven in a placebo-controlled randomized trial, which was recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine. See lung transplant team.
In addition, the University of Maryland Medical Center recently became the first hospital in the United States to offer a new, portable artificial lung device available to certain patients awaiting lung transplants. The portable device is a simplified version of an ECMO machine, which employs a pump to circulate blood through an artificial lung and back to the bloodstream. It infuses the blood with oxygen and removes carbon dioxide, similar to healthy lungs. Previously, a person who was on the system had to remain lying down with large tubes placed in the neck and groin. But, doctors have modified the ECMO system so that a simple IV line is placed in the upper chest, allowing the patient to sit up, walk and remain active.
Lung transplant program medical director Dr. Iacono, can be reached for a consultation by calling 1-800-492-5538 (patients) or 1-800-373-4111 (physicians).
Click to Print
Print Preview
