Vanderbilt University Medical Center's lung transplant program has achieved a remarkable milestone in 2024, performing an unprecedented 99 lung transplants within the year. This accomplishment not only sets a new record but also solidifies Vanderbilt’s position as a leader in the Southeast and innovator in organ preservation and regeneration. The success of these procedures underscores the commitment to excellence across multiple departments, including thoracic surgery, medicine, and critical care. Two of the operations were even more complex, involving combined organ transplants, highlighting the advanced capabilities of the medical team.

The Vanderbilt Transplant Center now ranks eighth nationally in volume and is renowned for its superior long-term patient outcomes. Achieving significant growth while maintaining high-quality results is no small feat, requiring meticulous planning and collaboration. Dr. Matthew Bacchetta, surgical director of the Vanderbilt Lung Institute, emphasized that this achievement reflects the collective effort of a multidisciplinary team. Dr. David Erasmus, medical director of Vanderbilt Lung Transplant, expressed pride in the extensive support network that made this possible, particularly from advanced lung disease services. Leading the surgical efforts are Dr. Konrad Hoetzenecker and Dr. Caitlin Demarest, who have played pivotal roles in the program’s success.

The dedication of numerous professionals, including coordinators, clinical pharmacists, social workers, and administrators, has been instrumental in reaching this milestone. Patients benefit greatly from the expertise of various Vanderbilt Health services, such as transplant infectious diseases, which contribute to exceptional outcomes and experiences. Under the umbrella of the Vanderbilt Lung Institute, experts from pulmonary medicine, thoracic surgery, and allergy collaborate to diagnose and treat lung diseases, aiming to relieve suffering and offer hope to those with chronic conditions. Looking ahead, the institute plans to enhance its role as a multiregional referral center, offering complex transplants to patients considered too high-risk for smaller programs.

This landmark year exemplifies the power of teamwork and innovation in advancing medical care. It showcases how interdisciplinary collaboration can lead to groundbreaking achievements that not only improve patient outcomes but also set new standards in the field of lung transplantation. Vanderbilt’s commitment to excellence and patient-centered care continues to inspire progress and hope in the medical community.