First pig-to-human heart transplant patient dies

The 57-year-old American began deteriorating several days ago, after taking part in the world-first procedure in January
Reuters Health

A US patient, who made history as the first person to receive a genetically modified pig’s heart, has died two months following the operation.

David Bennett, 57, died on Tuesday at the University of Maryland Medical Centre (UMMC) in Baltimore after undergoing the procedure on 7 January, the hospital announced. 

His condition began deteriorating several days ago, the facility said in a statement on Wednesday, adding that Mr Bennett was given “compassionate palliative care” after it became clear that he would not recover.

Mr Bennett was able to communicate with his family during his final hours, the hospital said.