Mayo Clinic surgeons in Phoenix, Arizona, have achieved a significant milestone by performing 10 organ transplants within a single day. On November 19, the medical teams completed seven kidney transplants and three liver transplants, marking a record for both the hospital and the state.
Dr. Bashar Aqel, director of Mayo Clinic Transplant Center in Arizona, emphasized the importance of this achievement: "Ten people received a second chance at life in a single day," he said. He attributed this success to organ donation, technological advances, and the dedication of the specialized team.
Initially, three living-donor kidney transplants were planned for that day. However, as more organs became available throughout the evening, the team recognized the day's significance. Organ perfusion devices played a crucial role by keeping organs viable outside donors' bodies longer than usual. The team also managed logistical challenges to ensure sufficient operating room space was available for all surgeries.
Dr. Aqel highlighted the ongoing need for organ donations: "Every day, an estimated 17 people die waiting for an organ transplant," he noted. "We are doing what we can to try to reverse that trend with innovation and organ perfusion to save more lives."
Among those benefiting from these efforts is John Churan, who had been diagnosed with multiple myeloma 16 years ago. After his kidney began failing in 2020, he received stem cell treatment at Mayo Clinic and went into full remission from cancer. This allowed him to become eligible for a kidney transplant from his wife Julia Churan.
"I would not be here without Mayo Clinic," John Churan expressed gratitude for both his care and his wife's donation.
Mayo Clinic remains dedicated to advancing clinical practice through research and education while providing compassionate care.
