Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit undergoes successful lung transplant

The lung transplant surgery performed on Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit has been successful, according to an announcement by the Norwegian Royal House. The operation took place at Oslo University Hospital, and the positive outcome was confirmed by Professor Arnt Fiane, head of the Thoracic Surgery Department. No further details about the Crown Princess's health condition have been disclosed.

The Crown Princess was diagnosed in 2018 with a rare form of pulmonary fibrosis, which causes breathing difficulties, impedes oxygen transfer into the bloodstream, and leads to scar tissue formation. This disease has repeatedly forced her to take sick leave or reduce her official duties.

In December, Mette-Marit stated that her illness had progressed "faster than I hoped" and that activities she enjoyed with her husband, such as hiking and skiing, were no longer possible. Over the past six months, her condition has deteriorated significantly.

Dr. Åse Holma, a lung specialist at Oslo University Hospital, told a press conference that the amount of scar tissue in her lungs had increased considerably over the past year, and lung function tests showed a marked decline over the last three months. The specialist described the condition as "dangerous," leading to her inclusion on the transplant waiting list. A successful transplant depends on several factors, including finding a suitable donor match and ensuring the body does not reject the new organ.