Airway complications post lung transplantation

Purpose of review Advancements in surgical techniques, immunosuppression, graft retrieval, and postoperative care of lung transplant recipients has led to a decline in the incidence of airway complications since the first lung transplant was performed in 1963. Although improved, these complications remain a source of morbidity and mortality for lung transplant recipients. Recent findings Identification and management of risk factors is ideal, although interventional bronchoscopy techniques have allowed management of many airway complications in a less invasive fashion. With current management, mortality related to airway complications is now the same as mortality in lung transplant recipients without airway complications. Summary This review summarizes the six major classes of airway complications post lung transplantation, with descriptions of radiographic findings and current management.