Physical therapy in lung transplantation

Department of Physical Therapy/Occupational Therapy, University of North Carolina Hospitals, Chapel Hill 27514, USA.

Lung transplantation requires the skillful attention of a health care team to provide optimal results. The physical therapist is an integral part of this team, providing expertise in exercise testing and prescription in all phases, from initial evaluation through postoperative rehabilitation and beyond. In addition, the physical therapist promotes effective ventilation, offers techniques for enhanced coughing and mucociliary clearance, and provides treatment of the musculoskeletal system. Lung transplantation is reserved for patients in whom all other treatments have been exhausted. It is important for the physical therapist to stay abreast of the evolving field of lung transplantation, including medications and complications. The physical therapist has a critical role in helping lung transplant recipients achieve optimal function, increased survival, and improved quality of life.