Man Survives 38 Days with Transplanted Pig Liver, Pioneering Surgery

A 71-year-old man in Anhui, China, made medical history by surviving for more than a month with a genetically modified pig liver, according to a study published in the *Journal of Hepatology*. The pioneering transplant lasted for **38 days** before complications necessitated its removal. The patient, who had been terminally ill with liver cancer and hepatitis B-related scarring, was the first living individual to undergo such a procedure, marking a significant milestone in xenotransplantation.

The transplant was performed by a team led by **Dr. Beicheng Sun** from Anhui Medical University in late 2022. Following the surgery, the genetically engineered pig liver functioned normally for **five weeks**, a feat that demonstrates the potential of using pig organs in human transplants. Unfortunately, the patient experienced blood clotting, which led to the removal of the organ. Despite this setback, he lived for an additional **171 days** post-surgery before passing away due to internal bleeding—complications unrelated to the transplant.

Significance of the Procedure

This operation is being hailed as a landmark development in the field of organ transplantation. While the survival duration of the patient did not surpass the record for a pig kidney transplant recipient, who has lived for over **six months**, it is notably longer than the previous record for a pig liver transplant, which was **10 days** in a brain-dead patient.

Dr. Sun emphasized the importance of this case, stating, “This case proves that a genetically engineered pig liver can function in a human for an extended period. It is a pivotal step forward, demonstrating both the promise and the remaining hurdles.” The implications of this research could be profound, particularly as organ shortages continue to plague transplant programs worldwide.

The Future of Organ Transplants

The transplantation of pig organs into humans could potentially address the growing demand for donor organs. Currently, thousands of patients die each year while waiting for transplants; in **2023**, just over **4,500** organ transplants were performed in the UK, with more than **400** individuals dying due to a lack of available organs.

**Dr. Heiner Wedemeyer**, editor of the *Journal of Hepatology*, remarked, “A new era of transplant has started.” The advancements in gene editing technology can reduce the risk of organ rejection, making pig organs a viable alternative for patients facing life-threatening conditions.

As research continues, it is clear that more studies are necessary to refine the process and improve outcomes. The medical community is hopeful that these developments will lead to breakthroughs that could save countless lives.

In an effort to combat the organ shortage crisis, health officials have urged the public to consider organ donation. Recent changes to organ donation laws in the UK have made it an opt-out system, which means adults are automatically considered donors unless they specify otherwise. The need for organ donors remains pressing, as many families still decline consent for organ use after a loved one passes away.

For those interested in becoming organ donors, registration options are available through online platforms, as well as during passport and driving license applications. The hope is that increasing awareness and participation can significantly enhance the number of available organs for transplantation.