The first surviving patient who received a pig kidney transplant has been discharged from the hospital.

According to information from the hospital, Mr. Slayman (62 years old) is recovering well and will continue his recovery at home with his family. He shared: "The moment of being discharged from the hospital with one of the best health certificates I've had in a long time is a moment I've wished for for many years. Now it has become a reality and is one of the happiest moments of my life."

Dr. Slayman with doctors at Massachusetts General Hospital. Photo: MGH

Previously, doctors suggested Slayman try a genetically modified pig kidney transplant when he was diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease last year. Doctors said last month that they think his new kidney could last for many years, but also acknowledged that there are still many unknowns in organ transplantation from animals to humans.

Previously, pig kidneys were transplanted to brain-dead patients. Mr. Slayman was the first living patient in the world to receive a genetically modified pig kidney transplant. In addition to kidneys, the US has also transplanted pig hearts to two patients, but both died within less than two months.

The demand for organ transplants currently far exceeds the supply. Every day in the U.S., 17 people die while waiting for a transplant. Kidneys are the least readily available organ. Approximately 27,000 kidneys were transplanted in 2023, but nearly 89,000 people are on waiting lists for these organs.

Slayman said he was delighted that his surgery could offer hope to other patients waiting for kidney transplants. "Today marks a new beginning not only for me but for them as well," he shared.

Ngoc Anh (according to CNN)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/benh-nhan-duoc-ghep-than-lon-xuat-vien-post290541.html