In a historic milestone for medical science, doctors at Massachusetts General Hospital have successfully performed a kidney xenotransplant using a genetically modified pig organ in a human patient — marking one of the first such surgeries with long-term function reported.

The patient, a 58-year-old man with end-stage renal disease who was ineligible for a human kidney transplant, received the pig kidney after rigorous ethical reviews and FDA emergency authorization. The kidney, engineered to reduce rejection risk, began functioning almost immediately, producing urine within hours.

Dr. Emily Hart, the lead transplant surgeon, stated:
“This success brings new hope to thousands on organ transplant waiting lists. We’re looking at a future where organ shortages might be a thing of the past.”

The pig used in the procedure was specially bred to eliminate harmful genes that typically trigger immune rejection. Additionally, human genes were inserted to improve compatibility.

Experts emphasize that while this is a significant achievement, long-term monitoring is crucial. The patient will be closely observed for any signs of infection, organ rejection, or unforeseen complications.

The medical community sees this as a major step forward in xenotransplantation — the use of animal organs in humans — potentially easing the global shortage of transplantable human organs.