First published 2024-11-21 10:26:37
Cheryl Mercar, an emergency medical technician from New York, has become the first person in the world to undergo a fully robotic double lung transplant. For over a decade, Mercar battled chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a condition that worsened after a COVID-19 infection. The tipping point for her came during an EMT call when she struggled to keep pace with an elderly security guard. After years of seeking treatment, NYU Langone Health Center deemed her eligible for a transplant, and just five days after being listed, she received a call notifying her of a 98% match.
The groundbreaking procedure was performed at NYU Langone on October 22nd, under the leadership of Dr. Stephanie H. Chang, surgical director of the lung transplantation program. Unlike traditional transplants, which require large incisions and spread ribs apart, the robotic approach used smaller incisions and reduced trauma to the chest wall. This minimally invasive technique aimed to lessen post-operative pain and accelerate recovery times. Through this innovative surgery, Mercar avoided the extensive incisions typical of lung transplants and instead received the benefits of less pain and potentially faster healing.
Less than a month post-surgery, Mercar is up and active, walking at the hospital without needing supplemental oxygen. As she nears her discharge date, she reflects on the significance of her experience as the pioneer of this surgical innovation. Grateful to the unknown young male donor who has given her new lungs, Mercar acknowledges the profound impact this has had on her life. With renewed hope and a restored ability to breathe, she is focused on honoring her donor and appreciating the opportunities this revolutionary procedure has afforded her.
