Latest advances and challenges in pediatric lung transplantation

Lung transplantation is an effective treatment for end-stage lung disease and pulmonary vascular disease in children. It can prolong the survival time of children and improve their quality of life. Currently, more than 2 500 pediatric lung transplantations have been performed worldwide. Due to poor donor recipient match, difficult surgery and numerous postoperative complications, the scope of pediatric lung transplant is smaller than that of adult lung transplant. In recent years, the candidate criteria for pediatric recipient and the allocation system for donor have been continuously updated, and transplantation techniques, especially reduced volume lobar transplantation have been increasingly performed. With the accumulation of experience in perioperative management of pediatric lung transplantation, the prognosis of lung transplantation has also been significantly improved. This article reviewed the latest advance in indication and contraindication for pediatric lung transplantation, donor recipient match mechanism, transplantation techniques, and management of postoperative complication, to provide guidelines for clinical diagnosis and treatment.