Successful lung transplantation in an octogenarian

II (Thoratec, Pleasanton, Calif) axial flow pumps have sustained patients for 4 years. Given the reservations about survival advantage and economic viability of cardiac transplantation in United Network for Organ Sharing status II patients, properly structured clinical trials to compare LVADs with transplantation or continued medical therapy are indicated and probably overdue. Indeed, for those who wish to avoid the side effects of...