World's First Human Bladder Transplant

SOURCE studyfinds.org
On May 4, 2025, surgeons at UCLA Health and Keck Medicine of USC performed the world's first human bladder transplant on a patient who had lost most of his bladder and both kidneys due to cancer. The surgery was successful, with the transplanted kidney immediately producing urine and the patient's kidney function improving. The procedure offers hope for millions suffering from severe bladder conditions.

Key Points

  • Successful world's first human bladder transplant performed at UCLA Health and Keck Medicine of USC
  • Procedure offers hope for patients with severely compromised bladders
  • Long-term outcomes of bladder transplant still being monitored

Pros

  • Offers hope to millions suffering from severe bladder conditions
  • Successful surgery with immediate improvement in kidney function

Cons

  • Uncertainty about long-term function of transplanted bladder
  • Requirement for long-term immunosuppression