How is it performed? of Heart lung transplant

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The donated heart and lungs come from a healthy donor who has just died. The heart and lungs must be transplanted as soon as possible after death - preferably within four hours.

A heart-lung machine is set up. This takes over the function of the heart and lungs by keeping blood flowing around the body, putting in oxygen and taking out carbon dioxide. The damaged heart is removed first. This makes it easier to remove the damaged lungs and to avoid damage to the essential nerves that control the breathing muscles.

The main artery to the body (aorta), the main returning veins and the windpipe are then reconnected..