China performs first ever combined transplant of pig liver and kidney to human

Despite the potential of animal-to-human xenotransplantation, there are still many barriers scientists and doctors must overcome before it can become a clinical practice. (Image via South China Morning Post)

HONG KONG — A Chinese team has transplanted a pig's kidneys and liver into a patient who had suffered brain death, a world first which may pave the way for multi-organ animal-to-human transplants.

After the operation, the organs functioned within the 53-year-old man for nearly five days before the study was ended per his family's wishes.