Advances in Treating Cystic Fibrosis

NYP/Columbia is renowned for successfully performing lung transplantation in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). This genetic disease causes the build-up of thick, sticky mucus in the lungs and digestive tract. This mucus clogs the lungs, causing life-threatening lung infections, and obstructs the pancreas, impairing the ability of the intestines to break down food.

The Cystic Fibrosis Center at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center is fully accredited by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and cares for over 175 individuals with CF every year. Nearly 40% of our patients are adults. Our multidisciplinary team consists of adult and pediatric pulmonary physicians, gastroenterologists, genetic counselors, nutritionists, physical therapists, a nurse clinician, and a social worker.

Although current medical management strategies can control the disease into adulthood, lung transplantation offers extended survival in patients with advancing pulmonary disease. Our team has perfected surgical techniques and patient selection criteria for lung transplantation in CF patients. As a result we are home to the largest CF lung transplant program in the New York metropolitan area.

We have also established The Gunnar Esiason Adult Cystic Fibrosis and Lung Program, the premier site for adult cystic fibrosis care and research in New York. This program offers a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment of CF in adults and helps pediatric patients transition to adult care. Learn more about lung surgery for CF at columbiasurgery.org/conditions-and-treatments/cystic-fibrosis

To make an appointment with our surgical lung specialists, please call (212) 305-3408.