Boston physicians report a successful transplantation of a genetically engineered pig kidney into a 62-year-old individual suffering from end-stage kidney disease.

According to Massachusetts General Hospital, the Thursday announcement represents the first instance of a pig kidney being transplanted into a living individual.

In the past, there were efforts to use temporary transplants in brain-dead donors, but there have been two failed attempts at heart transplants from pigs.

The patient, Richard ‘Rick’ Slayman of Weymouth, Massachusetts, is reported to be recovering well after undergoing a medical procedure earlier this month. Doctors anticipate him returning home from the hospital soon.

According to Anne Klibanski, MD, President and CEO of Mass General Brigham, their researchers and clinicians are continuously advancing science to revolutionize medicine and address crucial health challenges that affect patients in their everyday lives. Their recent success in performing a kidney transplant after nearly 70 years since the first one is a testament to their dedication in providing cutting-edge treatments and improving the lives of patients globally.

After many failed attempts, recent efforts have been made to modify pig organs in order to make them more suitable for human use. This marks a significant step in xenotransplantation, the process of using animal organs to treat humans.

Certain data for this report was provided by The Associated Press.