Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Physiology & Medicine => Topic started by: thedoc on 16/07/2015 13:50:01

Title: Do animal organs last a humans life time?
Post by: thedoc on 16/07/2015 13:50:01

Paul asked the Naked Scientists:
   
I wonder whether a pig organ would last for the rest of ones life or would it expire after a pig's lifetime, and so I would need another pig organ?

What do you think?

Title: Re: Do animal organs last a humans life time?
Post by: Pecos_Bill on 16/07/2015 17:07:55

Some pig valves used in aortic valve replacements have lasted 17 years, but 15 is the more realistic case.(1.)

If they could suppress your cellular immunity enough to keep your transplanted pig kidney going 15 years, the question is still moot because you would then have to live permanently in a sterile plastic bubble.

Pigs are for side meat, and not for organ replacement.


(1.)http://www.heart-valve-surgery.com/heart-surgery-blog/2008/03/24/pig-heart-valve-how-long-do-they-last/