Pioneer Patient With Pig kidney transplants Discharged After Surgery
In a groundbreaking medical achievement heralding hope for thousands languishing on organ transplant waiting lists, Rick Slayman has become the inaugural individual to be discharged from hospital post a kidney transplant derived from a genetically modified pig.
The historic surgery, conducted at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), has been hailed a triumph, with Slayman exiting the medical facility just two weeks post-operation, signaling a significant breakthrough in xenotransplantation’s potential to address the critical shortage of organs.
Pig Kidney Transplants
At 62, Slayman expressed profound elation and gratitude for the transformative procedure. This moment – leaving the hospital today with one of the cleanest bills of health I’ve had in a long time – is one I wished would come for many years. Now, it’s a reality and one of the happiest moments of my life,” he remarked.
Slayman eagerly anticipates a newfound freedom from the burdensome dialysis that had marred his quality of life, stemming from complications related to type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.
The success of this surgery marks a significant stride following previous unsuccessful attempts with organs sourced from genetically modified pigs.
Dr. Winfred Williams, associate chief of the nephrology division at MGH and Slayman’s primary kidney doctor, commended his patient’s valor throughout the process.
The pig kidney, developed by eGenesis, a Cambridge-based biotech firm, underwent a meticulous process involving 69 genetic modifications to enhance compatibility with human physiology and eliminate the risk of pig retrovirus infection.
Dr. David Klassen, chief medical officer for the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), underscored the profound significance of this breakthrough, emphasizing its potential to benefit numerous patients, especially those from ethnic minority backgrounds who encounter disproportionate hurdles in accessing kidney transplants. The triumphant transplant addresses critical issues surrounding organ scarcity and systemic healthcare disparities.
Pig Kidney Transplants and Fate of PatientsÂ
Currently, over 100,000 individuals in the United States await organ transplants, with kidneys topping the list of most sought-after organs. The glaring gap between organ supply and demand presents a dire situation, with approximately 17 individuals succumbing daily while awaiting a suitable donor organ.
Dr. Leonardo Riella, MGH’s medical director for kidney transplantation, stressed the promise of xenotransplantation in tackling the organ shortage crisis, citing the prolonged wait times and risks endured by patients reliant on dialysis.
Slayman’s procedure received approval under a compassionate use waiver by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. In addition, to stave off organ rejection, he was administered two innovative immunosuppressant drugs, tegoprubart and ravulizumab, courtesy of Eledon Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Alexion Pharmaceuticals Inc. respectively.
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