The good news is that the first ever uterus transplant was attempted last month. The bad news is that it failed. At the Cleveland Clinic this past Wednesday, a 26-year-old woman received a womb from a dead donor during an intense nine-hour operation. The organ had to be removed. Despite the failure, this could open up a realm of possibilities for organ transplants. Researchers are already looking at 3D printed organs as a possibility.
FAILED UTERUS TRANSPLANT SHOWS HUMAN WEAKNESS
The sudden complications that led to removing of the uterus show a medical failure. The patient is alive and well, however. Perhaps she will let technology help her another time. When the patient was 16, she was told of her wonky uterus. Since then she has gone the route of adoption but the Cleveland Clinic gave her hope. In November, they announced their research study that would give uterus transplants to 10 lucky women. The study is ongoing, and she was the first attempt in the U.S. In Sweden, nine surgeries were attempted. Two failed and seven were successful. Five of the women have since become pregnant. This moderate success is celebratory, but scientists are looking for more fool proof way’s to treat this irreversible condition.
REGENERATIVE MEDICINE REACHES MILESTONE
Much like a lizard can grow a new tail, humans may be able to grow a new organ. This study started years ago and involved using 3D printed tissue regeneration. A milestone was recently reached in the program. Researchers are now confident enough to say that 3D printed tissues are a real thing. These tissues have successfully been implanted in lab animals. The next step is getting them approved for human use.
3D PRINTED ORGANS ARE THE FUTURE
What this 3D printed material does, is act as a pathway. Oxygen and nutrients can leisurely stroll down this pathway to get into the targeted tissue. In the meantime, a system of blood vessels will thrive. Why go through the risky procedure of transplanting a uterus when you can get a perfectly functioning one 3D printed for you? Customizable organs are on the way, it’s now just a matter of politics. For the time being, don’t go drinking away your liver just yet.
