Rick Slayman, the first living recipient of a genetically modified pig kidney, has been discharged from Massachusetts General Hospital after a groundbreaking surgery last month.
The 62-year-old, diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease last year, is recovering well and will continue his recuperation at home with his family.
In a statement, Slayman expressed his gratitude for the care he received and his excitement to resume spending time with loved ones without the burden of dialysis. He thanked everyone who had sent well-wishes, especially patients waiting for a kidney transplant, saying that his recovery marks a new beginning for them as well.
The four-hour surgery, conducted on March 21, involved a genetically edited pig kidney with 69 genomic edits. The procedure carried out at the Mass General Hospital Transplant Center, is a testament to the hospital’s commitment to providing innovative treatments.
Slayman’s decision to undergo the surgery was driven by a desire to provide hope for thousands of people in need of a transplant to survive. The surgery was performed under the FDA’s compassionate use protocol, highlighting the potential of xenotransplantation to address the ongoing organ shortage.
According to the United Network for Organ Sharing, over 100,000 people in the U.S. are on a transplant waiting list, with 90,000 in need of kidneys. The successful transplant of a pig kidney marks a significant step towards addressing this critical need.
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