Surgeons at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston have successfully transplanted a pig kidney into a human patient for the first time ever.
Historic Procedure at Mass General
Mass General declares the procedure as the first successful of its kind globally. The recipient, 62-year-old Rick Slayman of Weymouth, is recovering well post-transplant.
Medical Milestone
Dr. Leo Riella, medical director of kidney transplantation, tears up during the press conference, expressing gratitude to the dedicated MGH team.
Surgeon's Emotional Response
Over 100,000 people in the U.S. await organ transplants. Seventeen individuals die daily while on the transplant list.
Nationwide Organ Shortage
Mass General Brigham researchers and clinicians are praised for their commitment to innovation by Anne Klibanski, CEO of Mass General Brigham.
Pushing Medical Boundaries
The pig kidney, provided by eGenesis in Cambridge, was genetically edited to enhance compatibility by removing harmful pig genes and adding certain human genes.
Genetic Advancements
Joren Madsen, director of the MGH Transplant Center, hails Slayman as "the real hero" for his resilience in facing Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and a previous kidney transplant.
Patient's Resilience
The successful transplant signifies a significant leap forward in addressing organ shortages globally and highlights the importance of continued research and innovation in transplantation medicine.
Advancing Medicine
The historic pig kidney transplant at Massachusetts General Hospital offers hope to patients worldwide and emphasizes the dedication of medical professionals in improving patient outcomes.
Conclusion
Stay updated on medical breakthroughs and innovations at Massachusetts General Hospital by visiting their official website.