Man receives world's first pig kidney transplant but unfortunately dies
A man with kidney disease became the first person in the world to receive a new kidney from a genetically modified pig. Unfortunately, two months after the surgery, he died. Doctors reported that the death of the 62-year-old man was not related to the transplant.
Rick Slayman, from Weymouth in the US state of Massachusetts, underwent the first-ever operation to transplant a kidney from a pig on 21 March. This groundbreaking event in the field of medicine raised many hopes and controversies. The kidney, subjected to genetic modification, had pig genes removed and replaced with human ones, which was supposed to reduce the risk of rejection.
Two weeks after the surgery, Rick was discharged from the hospital to continue rehabilitation at home. Unfortunately, despite initial signs of improvement, his health deteriorated. The man died.
Death was not related to the transplant
Doctors at the Massachusetts hospital agree that Rick Slayman's death was not related to the pig kidney transplant. The 62-year-old struggled with chronic diseases, such as high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, which posed a significant burden on his health.
The Mass General transplant team is deeply saddened at the sudden passing of Mr. Rick Slayman. We have no indication that it was the result of his recent transplant. Mr. Slayman will forever be seen as a beacon of hope to countless transplant patients worldwide and we are deeply grateful for his trust and willingness to advance the field of xenotransplantation - the Massachusetts General Hospital statement read.
The doctors added that they are grateful to the man for his trust, as well as contributing to the development of the field of xenotransplantation.
He wanted to give hope to others
After the transplant, Rick stated that one of the main reasons he underwent the procedure was the desire to give hope to thousands of people who also need a transplant. His decision was a courageous gesture aimed at improving his health and inspiring others in similar situations.
Rick accomplished that goal and his hope and optimism will endure forever – the statement added.
The family of Slayman also spoke out. Relatives are happy that millions of people worldwide could learn about the 62-year-old's story. "To us, Rick was a kind-hearted man with a quick-witted sense of humour who was fiercely dedicated to his family, friends, and co-workers," they wrote.
