After undergoing a genetically modified pig kidney transplant, Rick Slayman, the first person in the world to receive such a transplant while alive, has been discharged from the medical facility.
According to a report by CNN, Slayman left the hospital on Wednesday, exactly two weeks post his surgery, as confirmed by Massachusetts General Hospital in a formal statement.
In a message issued by the hospital, it was stated, “He is making a good recovery and will be continuing his recuperation in the comfort of his home surrounded by his family.”
Expressing his emotions, Slayman shared, “Leaving the hospital today with one of the best health reports I’ve received in a long time is a moment I have hoped for, for so many years. Now, it is a reality and one of the happiest instances in my life.”
It was earlier mentioned that Slayman, who is a 62-year-old manager at the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, discussed the option of a pig kidney with his doctors when he was diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease the previous year.
The medical team had indicated last month that they foresaw the possibility of Slayman’s new kidney lasting for several years, but they also acknowledged the numerous uncertainties associated with animal-to-human transplants.
Notably, Slayman’s surgery marked the third xenotransplant of a pig organ into a living human being.
The initial two transplants involved hearts being transplanted into individuals who had exhausted all other options for transplantation.
These procedures were carried out under specific regulations that allow the compassionate use of experimental treatments for patients in severe conditions. Tragically, both recipients passed away a few weeks after their surgeries.
Expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support post-surgery, Slayman particularly acknowledged the response from other patients awaiting kidney transplants.
Speaking on the significance of this day, Slayman remarked, “Today is not just a fresh start for me, but for all those waiting alongside me as well.”