LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 17, 2025) – How do doctors decide when a transplant is the right choice? Doctors consider lung disease “end stage” when it is very advanced and a person is not expected to live more than two years without a transplant. This usually means the lungs are no longer working well, even with medicine or oxygen.
Most people are referred for a lung transplant evaluation when they need to use oxygen all the time. Other serious problems, like coughing up blood or having frequent lung infections, might also lead doctors to consider a lung transplant.
Matthias Loebe, M.D., surgical director of heart and lung transplant at UK HealthCare, explains more about the process.
What conditions necessitate a lung transplant?
Many diseases can lead to the need for a transplant. These include COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, cystic fibrosis and pulmonary hypertension. These conditions can all cause lasting damage to the lungs. The disease someone has can affect when a transplant is needed, but the rules for who can get one are similar.
Who qualifies for a transplant?
To qualify for a lung transplant, a person must:
Have very serious lung disease
Be free from other major health problems
Have strong support from family or friends
Be motivated and ready to follow care instructions
Older adults can still get lung transplants, too. Some patients in their late 70s have had successful transplants at UK HealthCare. What matters most is being healthy enough for surgery and having the drive to recover.
How is a patient evaluated for a potential transplant?
The first step is a meeting with the patient, their family and the transplant team.
If transplant seems like a good option, the patient will go through a series of tests. These include a heart check, breathing tests, CT scans, a walking test and a talk with a social worker to see what kind of support the patient has at home.
These tests help the team decide if the person is healthy and ready enough for surgery and recovery.
If you or someone you love has a serious lung disease, talk to your doctor about whether a lung transplant might be an option. Getting referred early can help you learn more and prepare for what’s next.
Learn more about criteria to become a candidate for lung transplant here or call the UK Transplant Center at 1-888-808-3212.
