Northwestern Medicine announced on April 8 that Steven Evans, a longtime pastor, became the first patient in its health system to undergo lung cancer surgery using Cytalux, an imaging agent designed to help surgeons identify and remove cancerous tissue more precisely.
The use of Cytalux is seen as an important advancement for patients undergoing complex lung surgeries. The technology enables surgeons to see cancer cells under near-infrared light, potentially improving outcomes by allowing for more thorough removal of tumors.
Evans, who leads Leap of Faith Ministry in Park Forest, had previously suffered from significant Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) before being diagnosed with adenocarcinoma in his right lung. Due to the location of his tumor and pre-existing COPD damage, he faced increased risks related to respiratory function following surgery. Despite concerns about whether he would be able to sing again after recovery—a key part of his pastoral duties—Evans agreed to proceed with the operation when Dr. Justin Karush proposed using Cytalux for the first time at Northwestern Medicine.
“This technology gives us another layer of visibility during surgery,” said Dr. Karush, surgical director of the Canning Thoracic Institute at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital. “Cancer cells can hide in plain sight, especially in complex areas of the lung. Cytalux helps us see what we might have otherwise missed, allowing for a more thorough and precise removal. Being able to offer this to our patients is an exciting step forward for our entire system.”
Following a successful robotic assisted right lower lobectomy guided by Cytalux imaging—which revealed that Evans’ tumor was larger than previously detected—he was able to return fully to his pastoral responsibilities within one month post-surgery. “The fact that I was able to return to my full pastoral duties, including singing with my congregation, is truly a blessing,” Evans said.
Dr. Karush said introducing new technology like Cytalux represents progress toward advanced real-time imaging capabilities in thoracic oncology: “Our goal is always to offer our patients the safest, most effective treatment options available.”
Northwestern Medicine recognizes community contributions through humanitarian awards that reflect values of compassion and impact according to the official website. The organization also receives national recognition for programs supporting physician well-being and humanitarian awards honoring community service according to its official website.
Northwestern Medicine operates under parent organization Northwestern Memorial HealthCare according to its official website, aiming for world-class care through patient-focused missions involving care delivery, education and research as reported by its official site. Howard B. Chrisman serves as president and chief executive officer according to information provided online. The health system also engages in strategic collaborations intended to advance clinical research and education as stated on its official site.
