Impact of a Multidisciplinary Functional Recovery Program on Post-Lung Transplant Outcomes: A One-Year Follow-Up

Lung transplantation (LT) is a life-saving procedure for patients with end-stage respiratory diseases. Functional recovery post-LT is influenced by multiple factors, including graft integration, physical rehabilitation, and individual variability. This retrospective case series describes the one-year functional evolution of three LT recipients (two male, one female) from a Romanian transplant center, highlighting the adaptability of a structured rehabilitation program implemented under pandemic-related constraints. Patients were monitored at predefined intervals (discharge, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months). Assessments included six-minute walk test (6MWT), spirometry, plethysmography, diffusion capacity (DLCOc, KCO), respiratory muscle status, and perceived exertion (Borg scale). All patients demonstrated early improvements in 6MWT distance, respiratory effort, and muscle mass. Two reached >60% of predicted 6MWT at 12 months, while one recovered to 97%. FEV₁ and FVC increased significantly in two patients, while one maintained reduced volumes. DLCOc and KCO showed inter-individual variability, with one patient sustaining values >80% and others experiencing partial recovery. Residual volume and Borg scores decreased over time, reflecting improved ventilatory efficiency and exercise tolerance. Functional outcomes post-LT vary, but early rehabilitation supports recovery in multiple domains. Comprehensive monitoring of respiratory, cardiovascular, and muscular parameters is essential to guide individualized care and long-term management strategies.