First published 2024-10-02 13:30:32
In a pioneering medical procedure, Dr. Gary Gibbon, a seasoned pulmonologist and immunologist, has become the first patient in the world to successfully undergo a double organ transplant of both lungs and liver amid his battle with advanced lung cancer. After enduring multiple treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy that left his liver severely damaged, Dr. Gibbon faced a dire situation as he fought for his life against stage three lung cancer.
The intricate 10-hour surgery, performed by a team at Northwestern Medicine, involved a novel technique known as liver perfusion, which kept the donor liver alive outside the body by pumping oxygenated blood through it. This cutting-edge approach allowed for the seamless transplantation of both organs. A year after the procedure, Dr. Gibbon reports that not only have his lung and liver functions been restored, but he may also be on the path to potentially curing his cancer.
Dr. Gibbon aims to leverage his experience as a patient to enhance the care he provides to others. He emphasized the importance of a human touch in medicine, stating that his firsthand knowledge will allow him to connect with patients in ways that traditional textbooks cannot. This remarkable case highlights Northwestern Medicine’s commitment to advancing treatment options for lung cancer, where only a quarter of patients typically respond to existing immunotherapy treatments.