Slayman, a 62-year-old manager at the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, was diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease last year. Following his doctors’ advice, he opted for a pig kidney transplant.
Dr. Tatsuo Kawai, the transplant surgeon, anticipates that the pig kidney will function for at least two years. In case it fails, Slayman might have to resort to dialysis again.
This surgery marks the third instance of xenotransplantation, where animal organs are transplanted into humans. The first two cases involved heart transplants, but unfortunately, both patients passed away a few weeks after the procedure.
Slayman expressed his gratitude for the support and interest shown towards his surgery, especially from others awaiting kidney donations. “Today signifies a fresh start, not only for me but for them too,” he told CNN.
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