Lung Transplant Expertise and Care
Nationally Ranked Lung Care
Cincinnati Children’s is ranked No. 3 in the nation for Pulmonology and Lung Surgery by U.S News & World Report (2026-27). Our specialists have extensive experience caring for patients who are critically ill and whose conditions have reached the limits of treatment available elsewhere.
Our Lung Transplant Program works closely with the End-stage Lung Failure Program to evaluate complex conditions, explore treatment options and help families understand the best path forward for their child.
Advanced Transplant Support
Our team offers advanced life-support options for children with severe lung problems, including extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and a paracorporeal lung assist device (PLAD). ECMO provides temporary support for heart or lung function, while PLAD can help some children with lung and right heart failure participate in longer-term rehabilitation.
These therapies may give children time to recover or prepare for transplantation.
Team-Based, Personalized Care
We use a team-based care model to bring together physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, social workers, dietitians and child life specialists with pediatric lung transplantation expertise. Together, we create one individualized treatment plan for your child.
Each family also works with a dedicated nurse coordinator who helps schedule visits, answers questions, and keeps care organized. This support begins early and continues through every stage of treatment.
Support for Families Traveling Far
Families come to us from across the U.S. and around the world. Our team helps coordinate care and supports travel needs, making a complex process easier for your family.
Our highly skilled Transport Team is able to transport severely ill patients, even those on ECMO, to Cincinnati Children’s if determined that is necessary.
Whole-Child Rehabilitation Support
Our care plans include physical, nutritional, and emotional rehabilitation. This whole-child approach helps improve strength, recovery, and overall well-being during and after treatment.
Expert Second Opinions
Families can request second opinions to better understand their child’s condition and treatment options. Our specialists can review your child’s records and provide clear guidance to help you make informed decisions.
