100th kidney transplant at Lutheran

Source: WANE TV

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - History was made atLutheran Hospital on Sunday, June 5, when doctors performed the facility’s 100th kidney transplant.

Lutheran's kidney transplant program has been in place for four years. The Transplant Center , which includes both heart and kidney transplant programs, is the only transplant facility in Indiana outside of Indianapolis.

“This momentous milestone of 100 kidney transplants at Lutheran demonstrates the strength of our program,” said Joe Dorko, CEO, Lutheran Health Network. “I applaud the large team of dedicated professionals who make these miracles of transplant happen on a regular basis. From the surgeons and nurses to the follow-up case workers, each associate and physician contributes greatly to improving the quality of life for our patients.”

Hospital officials say 52 percent of the kidney transplants performed at Lutheran came from living organ donors. Right now, 73 patients are on the kidney transplant waiting list.

“Reaching our 100th kidney transplant is an exciting time for all of us at Lutheran, so we pause to acknowledge the progress we’ve made. None of this is possible without the support of regional physicians and patients who understand the benefit of providing this important care close to home,” said Dr. Tarik Kizilisik, kidney transplant program director and transplant surgeon.