Northwestern surgeons conduct groundbreaking double lung transplant on cancer patient, leading to miraculous recovery

Northwestern surgeons recently made history by performing a groundbreaking double lung transplant on a cancer patient, leading to a miraculous recovery.
Life-changing surgery brings hope
At 34 years old, Minnesota resident Mandy Wilk was facing a grim prognosis after being diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer, which had spread to her liver. Determined to find a new path forward, she sought out a different oncology facility for treatment. Eventually, cancer was detected in her lungs, and she was referred to the DREAM program at Northwestern Medicine's Canning Thoracic Institute, where doctors specialize in treating cancer patients with no other options through double lung transplants.
Revolutionary approach to treatment
Dr. Ankit Bharat, chief of thoracic surgery at Northwestern, led the team that performed Wilk's surgery. The DREAM program focuses on treating three categories of patients: those with stage 4 lung cancer, individuals with cancer that has spread from other organs to the lungs, and patients whose lungs have been impacted by chemotherapy or immunotherapy. The goal of the program is to replace both lungs and remove all traces of cancer. The process is complex due to the lungs being susceptible to various forms of cancer metastasis.
Innovative surgical technique
Wilk underwent the double lung transplant in June, and her rapid recovery amazed doctors. Despite the extensive nature of the surgery and the challenges posed by working with cancer cells, Wilk was discharged after just one week and did not require rehabilitation, a rare outcome for such procedures. The success of Wilk's surgery highlights the transformative impact of the DREAM program and its innovative approach to complex cases.
Looking ahead
Wilk is now focusing on regaining her strength and returning to activities she enjoyed before her diagnosis, such as running. Additionally, she is actively involved in 'Mandy's Foundation', an organization established by her younger brother, which supports art therapy and pediatric education at a children's hospital. Wilk's story serves as a testament to the importance of advocating for oneself and seeking multiple opinions when faced with challenging medical situations. Her journey underscores the critical role of cutting-edge medical interventions and the unwavering support of dedicated healthcare professionals in achieving positive outcomes.