Richard Slayman, aged 62, made medical history as the first recipient of a transplanted pig kidney, discharged from Massachusetts General Hospital after nearly three weeks post-operation.
Slayman, suffering from type 2 diabetes and hypertension, received the genetically edited pig kidney in a successful four-hour surgery on March 16. Having previously undergone a kidney transplant from a deceased human donor in 2018, Slayman faced kidney failure years later, leading to dialysis.
Despite experiencing signs of rejection post-operation, managed with medication, Slayman expressed gratitude for leaving the hospital with improved health and highlighted the significance of his milestone for others awaiting kidney transplants.
The pioneering procedure signifies a breakthrough in organ transplantation, offering hope for patients worldwide.
