Risk factors of bronchial dehiscence after primary lung transplantation

Complications of the bronchial anastomosis in lung transplantation, once the Achilles heel of the procedure, have become quite rare. The surgical technique is well established and safe. Risks contributing to anastomotic complications are primarily related to patients pre-existing conditions. The key factor is good blood flow to the bronchial stump. Postoperative infection can also contribute to the breakdown of the anastomosis. This may be the reason why different immunosuppressive regimes lead to differences in the incidence of bronchial dehiscence.