Turkey's foremost transplant center initiates lung transplantations

Akdeniz University, a renowned medical institution in Turkey, is on the verge of making history by becoming the third authorized centre in the country to perform lung transplants. This development is significant for the southwestern city of Antalya and the surrounding region, as it will provide local patients in need of lung transplants with an essential medical service that they previously had to travel to other cities to receive.

The university's foray into lung transplantation is not just about performing a high volume of transplants, but about ensuring long, healthy lives for its patients. This focus on patient care and well-being aligns with Akdeniz University's long-standing commitment to organ transplantation.

Over the past five decades, the university has established itself as a global leader in this field, recognised as the institution performing the widest variety of organ transplants in the world. This includes groundbreaking procedures such as Turkey's first double arm transplant in 2010, the world's first successful uterus transplant from a deceased donor in 2011, and Turkey's first face transplant in 2012.

However, until now, lung transplantation has been the only procedure not performed at Akdeniz University. This is set to change as the university has completed its preparations for lung transplants and is nearly finalizing the licensing process.

Organ transplantation is a highly complex undertaking, requiring not just surgical skill, but also long-term patient care, follow-up, and complication management. Lung transplants, in particular, present unique challenges due to their vulnerability to infection and the need for intensive post-operative care and rehabilitation.

Despite these challenges, Akdeniz University is prepared to take on this important medical task. Rector Özlenen Özkan emphasised that the university has long stood as the foremost institution for organ transplantation in Turkey. With its extensive experience in various organ transplants, including cornea, kidney, heart, pancreas, and liver transplants, Akdeniz University is well-equipped to handle the demands of lung transplants.

Moreover, the university has a notable track record in living donor surgeries with high success rates. This expertise will be crucial in the context of lung transplants, where the availability of donor organs can be a significant challenge.

The development of lung transplantation at Akdeniz University carries significant meaning for the southwestern city of Antalya and the surrounding region. Once licensed, the university will join Acıbadem Altunizade Hospital as the third recognized centre in Turkey to perform lung transplants. This expansion of medical capabilities will undoubtedly improve the lives of many patients in the region, providing them with a critical service that they can now access locally.