The world’s first successful human bone marrow transplant was performed at the University of Minnesota in 1968 by University of Minnesota Physicians.
Rochester is home of the world famous Mayo Clinic. The clinic is a major teaching and working facility. It is known world wide for its doctor’s expertise and the newest methods of treatments.
On September 2, 1952, the world’s first successful open-heart surgery was performed at the University of Minnesota. The medical team was led by Dr. F. John Lewis. The operation used a technique in which the patient’s body temperature was reduced to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. (source: University of Minnesota).
A Jehovah’s Witness was the first patient to receive a transfusion of artificial blood in 1979 at the University of Minnesota Hospital. He had refused a transfusion of real blood because of his religious beliefs.
The record for the largest baby ever born in Minnesota goes to Jacob and Veronica Schmitz of Dumont, Minnesota. Their baby “Baby Boy Schmitz” weighed in at 15 pounds, 15.2 ounces. His height was 24½ inches, head 16 inches, chest 17 inches, across shoulders 8 inches. He was born on July 16, 1936 in a western Minnesota hospital.