BOSTON – The recipient of the world’s first pig kidney transplant was heading house from Massachusetts General Hospital on Wednesday, about two weeks after surgical procedure.
According to the hospital, Rik Suleiman, 62, will proceed to obtain remedy at his house in Weymouth.
Rick Suleiman, a pig kidney transplant affected person.Massachusetts General Hospital
“This second, immediately, leaving the hospital in the very best well being I’ve had in a very long time, is a second I’ve wished to return to for years. Now it is a actuality. It was one of many happiest moments of my life,” Suleiman mentioned in an announcement. He went on to thank all of the docs and nurses who took care of him. “The care I obtained was distinctive and I belief the docs on the Massachusetts Brigham General Hospital Health System with my life. I’m excited to have the ability to spend time with my household, buddies, and family members once more.” The high quality of life I’ve had for thus a few years. ”
First transplant of this species
At the time of the transplant on March 21, Suleiman had sort 2 diabetes, hypertension, and end-stage kidney illness. He underwent a human kidney transplant in 2018, however it began failing 5 years later.
The Massachusetts governor mentioned the transplant marks the primary time a pig kidney has been transplanted right into a dwelling human affected person. The hospital mentioned the kidney was donated by Cambridge-based EGenesys and was gene-edited to take away dangerous pig genes. Later, sure human genes had been added to enhance compatibility.
“New starting”
Suleiman mentioned in an announcement that his restoration was “progressing effectively” and added that he want to thank everybody who despatched effectively needs, together with fellow sufferers awaiting a kidney transplant.
“Today marks a brand new starting not just for me but in addition for them,” Suleiman mentioned in an announcement.
More from CBS News
WBZ-News Staff
learn extra