First successful pig kidney transplant patient discharged from hospital
John Doe, the first person to receive a successful pig kidney transplant, was released from the medical facility on Thursday, following a two-week recovery period. The hospital announced his discharge, stating that he is in good health and will now recover at home surrounded by his loved ones.
Rick Slayman, who received a genetically edited pig kidney transplant, was released from the hospital on Wednesday. He is doing well and will recover at home with his family, according to Massachusetts General Hospital.
Melissa Mattola-Kiatos, RN, Nursing Practice Specialist, removes the pig kidney from its box to prepare for transplantation.
Melissa Mattola-Kiatos, RN, Nursing Practice Specialist, removes the pig kidney from its box to prepare for transplantation.
Massachusetts General Hospital
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Pig kidney transplanted into living person for first time
Slayman, a 62-year-old manager with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, expressed his joy in a statement released by the hospital. He mentioned that leaving the hospital with a clean bill of health was a moment he had been waiting for years. Finally, after a long time, it has become a reality and one of the happiest moments of his life. Last year, when he was diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease, his doctors recommended that he consider a pig kidney as a potential solution.
His doctors said last month that they thought Slayman’s new kidney could last years but also acknowledged that there are many unknowns in animal-to-human transplants.
Rick Slayman in his hospital room at Massachusetts General Hospital before his discharge on Wednesday April 3, 2024.
Rick Slayman in his hospital room at Massachusetts General Hospital before his discharge on Wednesday April 3, 2024.
Michelle Rose/Massachusetts General Hospital
His surgery marks the third time a pig organ has been transplanted into a living human. The first two transplants involved hearts being transplanted into patients who had no other transplant options left. These organs were transplanted under special rules allowing experimental therapies for patients in critical situations. Unfortunately, both patients passed away weeks after receiving the organs.
Slayman expressed his gratitude for the support following his surgery, especially from fellow patients awaiting a kidney transplant.
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The number of organs needed exceeds the number available, leading to a high demand. In the U.S., 17 people lose their lives daily while waiting for an organ transplant. Among all organs, kidneys are in the shortest supply. In 2023, around 27,000 kidney transplants were performed, yet there were nearly 89,000 people on the waitlist for this organ.
Slayman expressed, "Today signifies a fresh start not only for me but also for them," in the statement.
Editor's P/S:
The successful pig kidney transplant marks a significant milestone in the field of organ transplantation and offers hope to countless patients suffering from end-stage kidney disease. The procedure demonstrates the potential of using animal organs to address the critical shortage of human organs. While the long-term viability of the transplanted kidney remains uncertain, it opens up exciting possibilities for future research and the development of novel therapies.
Rick Slayman's story highlights the transformative impact that organ transplantation can have on individuals' lives. After years of waiting and uncertainty, he can now look forward to a brighter future thanks to the pioneering efforts of his medical team and the generosity of the organ donor. His gratitude and optimism serve as an inspiration to all those affected by organ failure and the medical professionals working tirelessly to find innovative solutions.
