First Fully Robotic Double Lung Transplant at NYU Langone

Cheryl Mehrkar, a 57-year-old former EMT and adrenaline enthusiast, became the world's first recipient of a fully robotic double lung transplant at NYU Langone Health. Suffering from severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbated by COVID-19, Mehrkar underwent the groundbreaking procedure on October 22, 2024, led by Dr. Stephanie H. Chang using the da Vinci Xi robotic system. This innovative approach involves smaller incisions, which are less invasive and promote quicker recovery with reduced post-operative pain. The surgery marked a significant milestone in transplant surgery, with NYU Langone establishing itself as a leader in robotic transplant surgery. Mehrkar expressed immense gratitude for the donor's gift and shared her immediate post-surgery relief at being able to breathe freely again. This operation builds on NYU Langone's previous success with single robotic lung transplants, further advancing minimally invasive surgical techniques.