First US Uterine Transplant Fails

The first uterus transplant done in the US has failed, officials at Cleveland Clinic announced today.

The patient, a 26-year-old woman from Texas, received a cadaver donor organ on Feb. 24 (photo at left) and was apparently doing well, but on Tuesday, 13 days later, she developed a serious complication, the hospital said in a statement released today.

“There is a known risk in solid organ transplantation that the transplanted organ may have to be removed should a complication arise,” the hospital said, “The medical team took all necessary precautions and measures to ensure the safety of our patient”.

They did not give details on the complication but promised to do so at a later date.

x

The patient, identified only as "Lindsey" was born without a uterus.

The surgery to remove the organ was successful, the hospital said today.

"While this has been difficult for both the patient and the medical team, Lindsey is doing well and recovering," the hospital statement said.

The surgery was part of a clinical research project that will include 10 women who seek transplants because they have uterine infertility.

Though it was a first in the US, doctors in Sweden have performed nine uterus transplants, resulting in five births.

The donor participated in a news conference at the hospital Monday along with her husband and the team that cared for her.

In a statement released today, the hospital offered the woman’s comments on the setback.

““I just wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude towards all of my doctors. They acted very quickly to ensure my health and safety. Unfortunately I did lose the uterus to complications. However, I am doing okay and appreciate all of your prayers and good thoughts,” the patient said as quoted by the hospital.

Details on the study are available here.

-