Also known as: Cancer of the esophagus
Harold O'Malley undergoes a transhiatal esophagectomy for esophageal cancer, but surgeons discover the cancer has metastasized. Despite this, they proceed with surgery at his request. Post-operatively, he develops multi-organ failure and the family ultimately decides to withdraw life support.
Also known as: Kidney failure
Harold's kidneys begin to fail post-operatively with elevated BUN and creatinine levels, a critical sign that his organs are shutting down following the extensive cancer surgery.
Also known as: Breathing failure
Harold cannot breathe independently post-surgery and requires intubation. His endotracheal tube develops a kink requiring a complicated re-intubation procedure by Dr. Bailey, during which he experiences oxygen desaturation.
Also known as: Multiple organ failure
Harold's liver, kidneys, and other organs progressively shut down following his esophagectomy, leaving him entirely dependent on life support and leading to the family's decision to withdraw care.
Also known as: Spinal curvature
Heather, a 17-year-old with VATER syndrome, undergoes experimental spinal surgery for severe scoliosis funded by an anonymous donor (Izzie). She develops post-operative kidney complications but successfully recovers.
Heather has a history of VATER syndrome (a constellation of congenital abnormalities) which contributes to her severe spinal deformity requiring surgical correction.
Also known as: Lung infection
Mark mentions having walking pneumonia as part of his complaints about adjusting to Seattle's damp climate, representing his overall misery.