Cleveland Clinic

The Cleveland Clinic was founded in 1921 by four physicians, Dr. George W. Crile, Dr. Frank E. Bunts, Dr. William E. Lower, and Dr. John Phillips. It was established with the aim of providing patient care, research, and education under one roof. The concept of a multi-specialty group practice was quite innovative for its time, and Cleveland Clinic has since grown into one of the largest and most respected hospital systems in the world, renowned for pioneering clinical trials and medical research.

In 1958, Dr. Mason Sones at the Cleveland Clinic performed the first selective coronary angiography, an imaging technique that allows doctors to see the heart's blood vessels. This marked a significant advancement in cardiovascular diagnostics and treatment planning. The development of coronary angiography has had an enormous impact on the ability of doctors to understand and treat heart diseases, leading to improved patient outcomes and the expansion of interventional cardiology.

On December 3, 1967, Cleveland Clinic performed its first kidney transplant. This event marked a crucial development in the Clinic's transplant program, which would go on to become one of the most successful in the United States. The success of this operation paved the way for numerous advances in organ transplantation techniques and immunosuppressive therapy, contributing to the reputation of Cleveland Clinic as a leader in the field of transplant surgery and care.

The Lerner Research Institute was established in 1979 as part of Cleveland Clinic's commitment to lead in scientific research and innovation. Housing a wide variety of scientific disciplines, the institute became a hub for research in cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurological disorders. This step consolidated Cleveland Clinic’s efforts to integrate cutting-edge research with clinical practice, reinforcing its position at the forefront of medical advancements and discovery.

In 1985, Cleveland Clinic pioneered minimally invasive surgical techniques, significantly transforming patient care. These techniques enable surgeons to operate with less trauma to the body, leading to quicker recovery times, reduced hospital stays, and fewer complications. As a leader in surgical innovation, Cleveland Clinic played a pivotal role in developing and popularizing laparoscopic and endoscopic surgeries that have since become standard practice around the world.

On May 15, 1991, Cleveland Clinic surgeons successfully performed their first heart-lung transplant. This complex procedure involved the replacement of both the heart and lungs simultaneously and was a milestone in the field of organ transplantation. The success of this surgery demonstrated the Clinic's capacity to handle highly intricate procedures and contributed to its prestige as a center of excellence in cardiothoracic surgery and multi-organ transplants.

In 2004, Cleveland Clinic, in cooperation with Case Western Reserve University, established the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine. Designed to train physician-scientists who can bridge the gap between biomedical research and clinical practice, the program offers a unique curriculum emphasizing research, critical thinking, and clinical expertise. It reflects Cleveland Clinic's dedication to advancing medical education and preparing a new generation of leaders in health and science.

The Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health was established on June 29, 2009, as a part of Cleveland Clinic's mission to expand neurological research and treatment. Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, the center focuses on the advancement of research, early detection, and education in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, and ALS. The facility highlights Cleveland Clinic's commitment to addressing neurological disorders through comprehensive treatment and innovative research.

Cleveland Clinic achieved a milestone in robot-assisted surgery in March 2011, as it began incorporating the use of robotic systems in complex surgical procedures. This innovation improved precision, allowing for less invasive surgeries with better outcomes for patients. The adoption of robotic assistance underscored Cleveland Clinic's role as a pioneer in surgical technologies and highlighted its commitment to integrating cutting-edge tools that enhance patient care and surgical success.

On November 7, 2018, Cleveland Clinic London opened its doors as part of their international expansion strategy. The new facility reinforces Cleveland Clinic's mission to provide top-tier healthcare services on a global scale. Located in the heart of London, this state-of-the-art hospital offers specialized medical and surgical services, reflecting the organization's commitment to extend its model of care beyond the United States and lead advancements in global health.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Cleveland Clinic was at the forefront of response efforts, implementing advanced protective measures and treatments. The Clinic rapidly adapted its facilities to meet the surge of COVID-19 cases, including dedicating beds for COVID patients and establishing drive-through testing facilities. It engaged in critical research, contributed to vaccine trials, and provided telehealth services to maintain access to care and support public health initiatives.