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Donor Offers Face Before Assisted Dying in World First
2 Feb
Summary
- A Spanish hospital performed a first-ever facial transplant from an assisted dying donor.
- The complex surgery involved 100 professionals and benefited a recipient named Carme.
- Spain leads globally in organ transplants and legalized euthanasia in 2021.
A groundbreaking facial transplant was performed at Vall d'Hebron hospital in Barcelona, marking a world first. The donor voluntarily offered their face for donation prior to undergoing an assisted dying procedure.
Around 100 professionals, including psychiatrists and immunologists, participated in the intricate surgery. Hospital officials commended the donor's exceptional maturity and generosity in dedicating a final wish to a stranger.
The recipient, identified as Carme, had suffered from severe facial tissue necrosis, impacting her ability to speak, eat, and see. She reported feeling positive about her recovery, noting a growing resemblance to her former self.
Spain has maintained its position as a global leader in organ transplantation for over three decades. In 2021, the country legalized euthanasia, reflecting its progressive approach to healthcare and end-of-life decisions. Vall d'Hebron has a strong track record, having performed half of Spain's facial transplants and the world's first full face transplant in 2010.
