Experimental pig heart transplant recipient dies nearly six weeks after procedure, marking a setback in medical research
Tragic outcome as Lawrence Faucette, the second recipient of a groundbreaking pig heart transplant, passes away after six weeks The University of Maryland Medical Center reported signs of heart rejection leading to this unfortunate loss
Lawrence Faucette, the second person to ever receive a genetically modified pig heart in a transplant, passed away six weeks after undergoing the experimental procedure. The University of Maryland Medical Center, where the procedure took place, reported that the heart displayed signs of rejection in the recent days.
"Mr. Faucette's dying wish was for us to utilize the knowledge gained from our experience, ensuring that others have the opportunity for a new heart when a human organ is not available. He then expressed his love for the team of doctors and nurses surrounding him. We will deeply miss him," stated Dr. Bartley Griffith, the clinical director of the Cardiac Xenotransplantation Program at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, who had performed the groundbreaking surgery.
pig transplant patient update
University of Maryland Medical Center
One month after experimental pig heart transplant, doctors say they see no signs of rejection or infection
Faucette, aged 58, initially entered UMMC on September 14 due to heart failure symptoms and underwent a trial transplant procedure six days afterwards. His existing health conditions and heart disease rendered him ineligible for a conventional human heart transplant.
In an internal interview conducted by the hospital a few days prior to the surgery, Faucette expressed his sole remaining hope lies in opting for a xenotransplant with a pig heart.
"We don't have any expectations, except for our desire to spend more time together," expressed his wife, Ann Faucette. She added, "This could mean something as basic as sitting on our front porch and enjoying a cup of coffee."
During the weeks that ensued after the transplant, his medical practitioners observed notable advancements. These included engaging in physical therapy and dedicating time to be with his loved ones.
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One month post-surgery, his doctors confirmed that his heart function was outstanding and had discontinued any medications needed to support it. "Currently, there is no indication of infections or rejection," Griffith stated confidently.
Doctors administered an experimental antibody treatment to Faucette to enhance immune system suppression and thwart organ rejection. UMMC emphasized that organ rejection remains the biggest obstacle in conventional human organ transplants. In expressing her gratitude for her husband's care, Ann extended her appreciation to the medical team at UMMC.
Larry embarked on this journey with a receptive mindset and unwavering trust in Dr. Griffith and his team. Aware of the limited duration he had with us, he viewed this as his final opportunity to make a difference for others," she stated.
As per the federal government, over 113,000 individuals are currently registered on the organ transplant list, with more than 3,300 people urgently requiring a heart. Donate Life America emphasizes that 17 individuals lose their lives daily while awaiting an organ donor.
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In January 2022, a groundbreaking surgery was performed by the University of Maryland on David Bennett, a 57-year-old patient. Tragically, Bennett passed away just two months after the surgery due to heart failure caused by a complex combination of factors, including his preexisting medical condition. Autopsy findings indicated no signs of rejection in the initial weeks post-transplant. However, a recently published case study in the prestigious medical journal, The Lancet, revealed the presence of a previously unidentified pig virus.
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First man who received genetically modified pig heart in transplant surgery dies (March, 2022)
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