INTRODUCING NORTHWESTERN MEDICINE KENNETH C. GRIFFIN ESOPHAGEAL CENTER

Featuring: John Pandolfino, MD
In late June, Northwestern Medicine announced a $10 million gift from Kenneth C. Griffin, founder and CEO of Citadel and founder of Griffin Catalyst, to accelerate scientific discovery and improve the lives of patients with esophageal diseases. The Northwestern Medicine Kenneth C. Griffin Esophageal Center will strengthen Northwestern Medicine’s position as a national leader in treating esophageal diseases.
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To build on our legacy of academic-level medical care, the center will incorporate:
  • An AI and mathematics program
  • A clinical trials unit
  • A translational science core Studies program
  • A treatment clinic

“Through cutting-edge research, advanced therapies, and compassionate patient care, Northwestern Medicine makes a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals affected by esophageal conditions,” says Griffin. “The physicians and scientists at this center exemplify the commitment to excellence and innovation that defines Northwestern Medicine. I am honored to support Northwestern Medicine in its mission to advance the understanding and treatment of esophageal diseases.”
Kenneth C. Griffin Esophageal Center will be home to ongoing research on disorders of the esophagus such as:
  • Swallowing disorders
  • Esophageal cancers
  • Reflux disease

“Esophageal disease can affect every aspect of a person’s life, and our multidisciplinary team is deeply connected to the importance of collaboration,” says Howard B. Chrisman, MD, president and chief executive officer, Northwestern Memorial HealthCare. “This generous gift from Mr. Griffin will enable medical discoveries that will benefit millions of patients worldwide.”

A center to support growth in gastroenterology care
Northwestern Memorial Hospital serves more than 5,000 patients with esophagus issues a year, performing over 2,500 endoscopic procedures and 4,000 diagnostic procedures, becoming a national and international destination for care.

“Forecasting suggests that the incidence of esophageal cancer in patients 40 to 65 years old will nearly double over the next 15 years, and the incidence of benign esophageal diseases has increased significantly,” says John Pandolfino, MD, chief of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. “Our center trains the next generation of physicians and scientists, so patients have better access to the care they need.”

He adds, “We have pioneered many of the minimally invasive techniques that are used to treat esophageal diseases and have also developed most of the technologies used to diagnose and monitor patient outcomes, including the Chicago Classification and FLIP panometry.”

The impact on patient care
Gastroenterologist Michael Ruchim, MD, senior vice president, Northwestern Memorial Foundation, said philanthropic support helps advance Northwestern Medicine’s commitment to excellence in patient care.

“Mr. Griffin’s gift will change the future of digestive health for patients by accelerating medical research and supporting physician training,” Dr. Ruchim explains. “He has a true understanding of our commitment to patients, and we are tremendously grateful for his support.”
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​This article was originally published in the NM Newsroom on June 26, 2024. ​
John Pandolfino, MD, the chief of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Northwestern Medicine.

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