First Fully Robotic Double Lung Transplant Performed in New York

A surgical team at NYU Langone Health has performed the world's first fully robotic double lung transplant.

Dr. Stephanie Chang led the procedure using the Da Vinci Xi robotic system, which carries out minimally invasive surgery to improve patient outcomes and recovery. The team used small incisions between the ribs and robotic assistance for lung removal, site preparation and implanting the new lungs.

The surgery was performed on Oct. 22 on Cheryl Mehrkar, a 57-year-old woman with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

“I’m so grateful to the donor and their family for giving me another chance at life," said Mehrkar. “The team at NYU Langone Health centered my quality of life as a priority.”

This achievement builds upon NYU Langone's recent success with the nation's first fully robotic single lung transplant performed just last month, solidifying its global leadership in robotic transplant surgery.

“It is one of the greatest privileges to be able to help patients return to a healthy quality of life,” said Dr. Chang. “By using these robotic systems, we aim to reduce the impact this major surgery has on patients, limit their postoperative pain and give them the best possible outcome. It couldn’t happen here without a talented group of surgeons and an institution dedicated to moving transplantation forward.”

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NYU Langone Transplant Institute performed 76 lung transplants in 2023 and ranks highest in the United States for lung survival after transplant and waitlist speed, according to the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients.

“This latest breakthrough in robotic surgery speaks to the culture of innovation we’ve built by bringing the most talented people in their fields together," said Dr. Robert Montgomery, director of the NYU Langone Transplant Institute.

“Our Transplant Institute team pushes the field forward to better serve our patients and deliver the lifesaving care they need with the best patient experience.”