Predictive Utility of the 6-Minute Walk Distance on Survival in Patients Awaiting Lung Transplantation

Tuppin MP, Paratz JD, Chang AT, Seale HE, Walsh JR, Kermeeen FD, McNeil KD, Hopkins PM

This study aimed to determine the hazard function associated with the 6MWD, and its utility relative to other prognostic variables in all patients on the lung transplant list. A retrospective chart review was conducted on 163 patients who were listed for single or double LT, and either survived to transplant or died while on the waiting list. Patients included had either a diagnosis of COPD, Cystic Fibrosis or Interstitial Lung Disease.

The 6MWD proved to be the most predictive variable of outcome (survival), demonstrating that those with a greater 6MWD have a lower risk of death. A protective effect for each unit increase in the 6MWD was also demonstrated. This research demonstrates that the 6MWD is useful for stratifying patients on the lung transplant waiting list by identifying those patients with a significantly higher risk of mortality.

The Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation 2008; 27: 729 – 734

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