Angiography of the transplanted lung

The angiographic findings in 64 dogs with transplanted lungs were correlated with the results of thoracotomy and lung biopsy. Thromboses of vascular anastomoses were accurately detected. Rejection slowed circulation and progressively impaired peripheral perfusion. Pleural effusion produced a temporary interruption in arterial filling. Pleural thickening impaired circulation of the base of the lung. Bronchopneumonia did not modify the appearance of the angiogram. Position of the subject, status of the opposite lung, pneumothorax, and immunosuppressive therapy were also factors which influenced the angiogram. Angiography is considered to be a useful clinical procedure in detecting the cause of impaired perfusion in the transplanted lung.