Walter Klepetko

Univ. Prof. Dr. Walter Klepetko is one of Austria’s most renowned thoracic surgeons, internationally recognized for his pioneering work in lung transplantation and thoracic oncology. With a career spanning decades, he has combined clinical excellence, academic leadership, and groundbreaking innovation, making Vienna a global center for advanced lung surgery.

He studied medicine at the University of Vienna in the 1970s, where he graduated and began his surgical training. Early on, he specialized in thoracic and cardiovascular surgery, focusing on the treatment of severe lung diseases. His career quickly advanced as he combined surgery with research, contributing to major innovations in lung transplantation.

     1980s – Completed specialist training in thoracic surgery at the Vienna General Hospital (AKH).

     1989 – Performed one of the first lung transplants in Austria, establishing Vienna as a pioneer in the field.

     1990s–2000s – Developed and expanded the Lung Transplantation Program at AKH Vienna, which became one of Europe’s leading centers.

     2000s – Appointed Head of the Department of Thoracic Surgery at the Medical University of Vienna, overseeing clinical practice, research, and training of future surgeons.

     2010s – Gained international recognition for leading innovations in thoracic oncology, minimally invasive thoracic surgery, and new approaches to transplantation medicine.

     Today – Continues to work as a leading consultant and professor in Vienna, treating complex thoracic diseases, performing lung transplants, and advancing international collaborations in lung surgery.

Prof. Klepetko is particularly admired for his achievements in lung transplantation, where his team has performed several landmark procedures, including the lung transplant of Niki Lauda, the Austrian Formula 1 legend. His dedication to advancing thoracic surgery has saved countless lives and inspired new generations of surgeons. He combines world-class surgical skills with academic mentorship, contributing significantly to Austria’s reputation in global medicine.