World First Pig Kidney Transplant Man Dies

Rick Slayman, the world’s first patient with a transplanted pig kidney has died, almost two months after the operation.

Osun Defender reports that Massachusetts General Hospital transplanted the genetically-edited pig kidney into the 62-year-old man living with end-stage kidney disease.

The hospital at the time, said the operation was a milestone in xenotransplantation – the transplantation of organs or tissues from one species to another – as a potential solution to the worldwide organ shortage.

READ: World First Pig Kidney Transplant Patient Discharged From Hospital

However, the hospital said Slayman’s death was not linked to the transplant.

“Our family is deeply saddened about the sudden passing of our beloved Rick but take great comfort knowing he inspired so many,” his family said on Sunday.

Slayman’s family paid tribute to the medical team that cared for him.

“Their enormous efforts leading to the xenotransplant gave our family seven more weeks with Rick, and our memories made during that time will remain in our minds and hearts.”

The hospital said it was “deeply saddened” by Slayman’s death.

“We have no indication that it was the result of his recent transplant,”

“Mr Slayman will forever be seen as a beacon of hope to countless transplant patients worldwide and we are deeply grateful for his trust and willingness to advance the field of xenotransplantation,” it said.