Introduction

The second patient in the world to undergo a pig heart transplant has died.

Background

Lawrence Fawcett, 58, suffered from incurable heart failure. Fawcett was first admitted to the University of Maryland Medical Center on Sept. 14 with heart failure. Shortly before the operation, his heart stopped and he was admitted to the recovery room.

The Experiment

Experts decided that it was not permissible for him to undergo a conventional operation, so the man agreed to an experiment with a pig heart transplant.

The Transplant

On September 20, Fawcett underwent a heart transplant and was able to survive approximately 6 weeks after the operation. The University of Maryland Medical Center said he made “great progress” during this period as he spent more time with his family. Two days before his death, the man’s condition began to rapidly deteriorate. The cause of death has not yet been determined as an autopsy has not yet been performed.

Signs of Rejection

It is noteworthy that in the last days his heart began to show the first signs of rejection, and despite the best efforts of doctors, Fawcett died on October 30 last year.

Previous Case

It is worth noting that the first patient to undergo a pig heart transplant died in 2022, two months after the operation.

Source

Source: Rossiyskaya Gazeta.