Groundbreaking pig‑to-human kidney transplant ends in patient's death
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, 62, from Weymouth in the US state of Massachusetts, underwent the first-ever operation to transplant a kidney from a pig on March 21. This groundbreaking event in the field of medicine raised many hopes and controversies. The kidney was genetically modified; pig genes were 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, and the man died.
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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 transplant team is deeply saddened by the sudden death of Mr. Rick Slayman. Nothing indicates that it was the result of his recent transplant. Mr. Slayman will always be seen as a beacon of hope for countless transplant patients around the world - 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 not only at improving his own health but also at inspiring others in similar situations.
Rick achieved this goal, and his hope and optimism will last forever. His legacy will inspire patients, researchers, and healthcare workers around the world – the statement added.
The family of Slayman also spoke out. Relatives are happy that millions of people around the world could learn about the 62-year-old's story. "For us, Rick was a man with a kind heart and a sharp sense of humor, who was incredibly devoted to his family, friends, and co-workers," they wrote.
