When it comes to lung transplantation, choosing the right hospital can be a life-saving decision. Leading lung transplant centers worldwide combine advanced surgical expertise, comprehensive post-operative care, and excellent long-term survival rates. Below, we highlight the top 10 lung transplant hospitals in the world known for their excellence in patient outcomes and quality of care.
1. Cleveland Clinic (USA)
Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top hospital for Pulmonology & Lung Surgery, Cleveland Clinic performs over 120 lung transplants annually with exceptional one-year survival rates above the national average. Cleveland Clinic consistently ranks among the top lung transplant hospitals in the United States and boasts one of the most experienced thoracic surgery teams worldwide. Lung transplant services are available in Ohio, United States and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
2. Mayo Clinic – Rochester, Minnesota (USA)
Mayo Clinic’s lung transplant program is globally recognized for its patient-centered approach, advanced surgical techniques, and research-driven innovations. It has received top rankings for Pulmonology & Lung Surgery by U.S. News & World Report and performs over 90 lung transplants each year, offering both single and double lung procedures with outstanding long-term outcomes.
3. University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (USA)
UPMC is a pioneer in lung transplantation and among the highest-volume centers worldwide, performing over 110 lung transplants annually. It has been recognized by the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients (SRTR) for its high patient survival rates and excellence in treating complex lung diseases.
4. Duke University Hospital (USA)
Duke’s lung transplant program ranks highly in the U.S., known for its advanced rehabilitation services and high one-year survival rates. It conducts approximately 100 lung transplants annually and has been recognized by the SRTR for its superior outcomes.
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5. Houston Methodist Hospital (USA)
Specializing in end-stage lung diseases, Houston Methodist performs around 60–80 lung transplants each year and is consistently ranked among the best hospitals for lung surgery. It has been recognized for innovations in organ preservation and advanced therapies improving transplant success.
6. Royal Papworth Hospital – Cambridge (UK)
As the UK’s leading cardiothoracic center, Royal Papworth performs approximately 40-50 lung transplants annually. It has received recognition from the UK National Health Service (NHS) for having one of the highest post-transplant survival rates in Europe and for pioneering ex vivo lung perfusion techniques.
7. Toronto General Hospital (Canada)
Toronto General operates one of the largest lung transplant programs globally, performing over 150 lung transplants annually. It has received numerous awards for innovation, including recognition for developing the EVLP system, which has significantly improved transplant success rates worldwide.
8. University of California, San Francisco Medical Center (USA)
UCSF performs approximately 90 lung transplants annually and is consistently ranked by U.S. News & World Report for excellence in pulmonology and thoracic surgery. It is known for advanced research and high survival rates among patients with complex lung conditions.
9. Hanover Medical School (Germany)
A European leader in lung transplantation, Hanover’s transplant center conducts 80–100 procedures annually. It has received recognition from European transplant registries for pioneering lung preservation techniques and excellent post-operative outcomes.
10. National University Hospital (Singapore)
NUH is one of Asia’s most reputable transplant centers, performing 20-40 lung transplants annually. It has received awards from the Asian Society of Transplantation for its contributions to improving transplant access and success rates in Asia.
How Much Does a Lung Transplant Cost?
The cost of a lung transplant varies widely depending on the hospital, country, and individual patient needs. In the United States, the total cost of lung transplant including surgery, hospitalization, and post-operative care-can exceed USD $1 million.
In other countries, such as India, Turkey, or Singapore, costs are significantly lower, often ranging from USD $150,000 to $350,000, while maintaining high-quality standards. However, additional expenses for pre-transplant evaluations, travel, and long-term medications should also be considered by international patients seeking a lung transplant overseas.
For a more detailed breakdown of costs by country, visit our guide on lung transplant costs internationally.
Choosing the Best Lung Transplant Hospital
When evaluating the best lung transplant hospitals, consider:
Experience and volume of transplants performed annually
Survival rates for both single and double lung transplants
Post-transplant support and rehabilitation services
Access to international patients and language support
Need Help Finding a Lung Transplant Hospital Abroad?
At Medical Travel Market, we specialize in connecting patients with leading lung transplant hospitals worldwide. Our team helps you compare the most experienced thoracic surgeons, understand treatment costs, and plan your journey for the best possible care.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our medical travel team.
