Northwestern Medicine announced on April 8 that Steven Evans, a longtime pastor, has returned to his ministry one month after undergoing the health system's first lung cancer surgery using Cytalux, an imaging agent that helps surgeons identify and remove cancer cells more precisely.
The use of Cytalux in Evans' procedure marks a significant advancement for both patient care and surgical technology. The agent, which is FDA-approved, causes cancer cells to fluoresce under near-infrared light during surgery, allowing for improved visualization of malignant tissue.
Evans was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma in his right lung in October 2025 while already suffering from severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). His case presented unique challenges due to existing respiratory issues. Dr. Justin Karush, surgical director of the Canning Thoracic Institute at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital, performed the robotic-assisted right lower lobectomy using Cytalux. "This technology gives us another layer of visibility during surgery," said Dr. Karush. "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." Evans said he welcomed the use of Cytalux: "Dr. Karush did an incredible job explaining it to me and I was eager to have him remove as many cancerous cells as possible."
After a successful operation where Cytalux revealed a larger tumor than previously detected by scans, Evans resumed all pastoral duties at Leap of Faith Ministry just one month later—including singing with his congregation—something he had feared would not be possible 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.
Cytalux has been approved for use in ovarian and lung cancer surgeries but this procedure marked its debut at Northwestern Medicine facilities—a step toward more advanced real-time imaging capabilities in thoracic oncology according to Dr. Karush: "Bringing new technology like Cytalux into the operating room allows us to elevate the care we’re able to provide... Our goal is always to offer our patients the safest, most effective treatment options available."
Northwestern Medicine recognizes community contributions through humanitarian awards reflecting values such as compassion and impact according to its official website. The organization also receives national recognition for programs supporting physician well-being and honors community service through humanitarian awards according to its official website. It operates under parent organization Northwestern Memorial HealthCare according to its official website and aims for world-class care through patient-focused missions including education and research according to its official website. Howard B. Chrisman serves as president and chief executive officer according to its official website, while strategic collaborations advance clinical research and education efforts according to its official website.
