Alabama Woman Who Is the Only Person in the World with a Functioning Pig Organ Is Thriving After a Record 2 Months
In a groundbreaking development for organ transplantation, Towana Looney, a 53-year-old woman from Alabama, has become the longest-living recipient of a pig organ transplant, successfully sustaining her new kidney for 61 days. Looney, who describes herself as “superwoman,” is reveling in her recovery, often outpacing her family on walks through New York City. This milestone represents a significant advancement in the field of xenotransplantation, where genetically altered pig organs are used to address the severe human organ shortage, which currently affects over 100,000 individuals in the U.S.
Looney’s kidney transplant was performed by Dr. Robert Montgomery at NYU Langone Health, who reported that her kidney function is “absolutely normal.” Looney’s case is particularly noteworthy as she is one of the first patients to receive a transplant despite having developed high antibody levels that complicate traditional donations. After eight years on dialysis, Looney opted for the experimental pig organ transplant, becoming part of a growing research initiative aimed at overcoming organ scarcity.
While pig organ transplants have been conducted under compassionate use provisions, upcoming formal studies are anticipated as hospitals share insights from such cases. Looney is not only focusing on her own health but also reaching out to others who are considering xenotransplants. Her journey not only advances medical science but serves as an inspiration to those facing long wait times for organ transplants.
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