Thoracic Surgeon
Professor Édouard Sage, Head, Department of Thoracic Surgery and Lung Transplantation, Foch Hospital, Paris.
Professor Édouard Sage is an internationally recognised thoracic surgeon and researcher, leading the Department of Thoracic Surgery and Lung Transplantation at Foch Hospital since 2022. Renowned for his pioneering work and innovative approach, he combines exceptional surgical expertise with a strong commitment to translational research in the field of lung transplantation.
Since joining Foch Hospital in 2006 as a Fellow, Professor Sage has been instrumental in establishing a leading experimental research programme in thoracic surgery and lung transplantation, in collaboration with INRAe. His work rapidly focused on ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP), using innovative preclinical models to improve donor lung assessment, optimise graft preservation, and expand the donor pool. His research, firmly rooted in translational and interdisciplinary collaboration, has consistently aimed at direct clinical application to enhance outcomes and increase transplantation opportunities.
As a clinician, Professor Sage has transformed thoracic surgical practice at Foch Hospital. In 2010, he introduced minimally invasive techniques (thoracoscopic and robotic) for lung cancer surgery—now performed in over 80% of cases within the department. This innovation has led to significant improvements in postoperative recovery, reduced complication rates, and shortened hospital stays.
Drawing on experience gained in Toronto, he further advanced the field of lung transplantation by implementing modern donor management and selection protocols, including programmes for donation after circulatory death (DCD) and optimised graft preservation. These initiatives have contributed to maintaining Foch Hospital’s position as a leading national and European centre for lung transplantation, with consistently excellent outcomes.
Professor Sage plays an active role in shaping national and international practice. He serves on the Lung Transplantation Expert Committee of the French Biomedicine Agency and is a member of the French Society of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, where he chairs both the Lung Transplantation Group and the Scientific Committee.
Within the Department of Thoracic Surgery and Lung Transplantation, he is dedicated to strengthening the unit’s reputation for excellence and innovation while fostering an environment that supports the professional development of surgical trainees and encourages their engagement in applied research.
