CHICAGO – Northwestern Medicine made medical history with a groundbreaking procedure: a combined lung liver transplant on a lung cancer patient.

Unprecedented Procedure

Santa Monica Pulmonologist Gary Gibbon faced a dire diagnosis of stage three lung cancer in March 2023. Despite undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy in California, his condition worsened. The immunotherapy, intended to combat the cancer, inadvertently damaged both his lungs and liver, leaving him with limited options for survival.

Seeking Solutions

Given Gibbon’s critical condition, his only hope lay in an innovative treatment offered at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago: a lung liver transplant. Gibbon’s case was unique, qualifying him for a program designed for patients with advanced lung cancer unresponsive to conventional therapies.

Surgical Milestone

In September, Gibbon underwent the groundbreaking surgery. Reflecting on his experience, Gibbon emphasized the shift from being a physician to a patient, remarking on the profound difference in perspective. Despite the inherent challenges, Gibbon expressed gratitude for the opportunity.

Successful Outcome

The operation proved to be a success, marking a significant advancement in medical science. Gibbon’s post-operative scans revealed no traces of cancer in his body. Consequently, he no longer requires ongoing cancer treatments, heralding a new chapter in his journey towards recovery.

Pioneering Achievement

Northwestern Medicine’s team of surgeons achieved a remarkable feat with Gibbon’s procedure. To their knowledge, this marks the first instance in the United States of a patient with advanced lung cancer undergoing a combined lung liver transplant.

Conclusion: A Landmark in Medical Innovation

Gibbon’s story stands as a testament to the relentless pursuit of innovation in medical science. The successful outcome of his surgery not only offers hope to individuals facing similar challenges but also underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in pushing the boundaries of modern medicine. As Northwestern Medicine continues to push the envelope of medical possibility, Gibbon’s journey serves as a beacon of hope for patients worldwide.

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