That’ll Do, Pig

The organ donation community and the healthcare industry takes a huge leap in advancements as the first pig kidney was successfully transplanted into a human. This scientific breakthrough consists of a pig kidney that was genetically altered in a manner that made it suitable for human function. The procedure was performed on a patient who was pronounced brain dead and was on a ventilator at NYU Langone. After performing the procedure, the medical researchers observed the progress of the foreign pig kidney in the human system and they were able to find that the body accepted the kidney with no concern. Although this one trial pales in comparison to the further research that needs to be done to be performed on a regular basis, it is still revolutionary due to the impact the research can have on the lives of many that are long waiting on the organ transplant list.

In 2020, there were 91,099 people on the organ transplant list waiting for a kidney transplant, of which only 22,817 were able to receive one. This makes about 75% of those waiting not able to receive a transplant which can lead to more medical complications, if not death. Having a new source for organs can save many and can act as a cheaper alternative while saving people from the false hope and emotional distress that comes with being on the organ transplant list. With a high success rate, professionals can also ensure that those who do receive a transplant are able to accept it with no complication, making it more dependable than the typical organ transplantation. 

Many concerns arise from this discovery, all of which will hopefully be resolved given time. A concern by many activists has been that for pigs to be a resource to the healthcare system, they would have to be bred genetically, which brings up many moral issues. Another concern brought up about the use of pigs is that the longevity of the transplant isn’t known. More research is needed to determine if the body will still accept the transplant years later or if complications arise. 

Despite this advancement in healthcare, it is more important now than ever to register as an organ donor. This revolutionary discovery shouldn’t be taken as a reason to step back and leave the healthcare industry without the resources they need, but rather step up and understand the need for more donors. Take the initiative and register to be a donor.