Dr. Raffaello Cortesini

Prof. Raffaello Cortesini, MD, Transplant Pioneer, Passes Away

New York, NY – March 21, 2024 – Professor Raffaello Cortesini, MD, a renowned Italian surgeon and expert in organ transplantation, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2024, at his home in New York City. He was 92 years old, a testament to a life dedicated to saving lives.

Prof. Cortesini was born in Milan, Italy on November 3, 1931. He became a leading figure in Italian transplant surgery, performing the country’s first:

• Kidney transplant from a living donor (1967)
• Simultaneous kidney and pancreas transplant (1981)
• Liver transplant (1982)
• Multi-organ liver-pancreas-intestine transplant (1989)

These groundbreaking procedures were vital steps forward in the field of organ transplantation, offering hope to countless patients.

Prof. Cortesini’s dedication extended beyond Italy to the world. He held the esteemed position of Professor of Clinical Pathology and Transplantation in the Department of Pathology at Columbia University in New York City. His contributions were recognized with prestigious honors, including Knight of the Order of Saint Gregory the Great (Vatican City, 1984) and Grand Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic (Rome, Italy, 1999).

Prof. Cortesini is survived by his beloved wife, Dr. Nicole Suciu-Foca. He will be remembered by his family, colleagues, and the countless patients whose lives he touched.