Story perspectives

Breakthrough Artificial Lung Saves Patient Awaiting Transplant

2/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Northwestern University surgeons treated a 33-year-old man with acute respiratory distress syndrome using a novel artificial lung, and he survived 48 hours on the device before a double lung transplant.
The patient's lungs were severely damaged by the flu and bacterial pneumonia.
Dr. Ankit Bharat, a Northwestern University surgeon, notes that artificial lungs are currently rare and limited to specialized centers, but broader use could prevent deaths.

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Story summary

Northwestern University surgeons treated a 33-year-old man with acute respiratory distress syndrome using a novel artificial lung, and he survived 48 hours on the device before a double lung transplant.
The patient's lungs were severely damaged by the flu and bacterial pneumonia.
Dr. Ankit Bharat, a Northwestern University surgeon, notes that artificial lungs are currently rare and limited to specialized centers, but broader use could prevent deaths.