In the first successful operation of its kind in Shanghai, doctors have successfully transplanted a kidney from which a tumor has been removed

The 30-year-old female recipient, surnamed Ling, who was suffering from renal disease, was due to receive the organ from her 60-year-old mother when doctors at Zhongshan Hospital found a small tumor before the surgery was to take place, and suspected it was malignant.

The medical team made inquiries at home and abroad, and found that almost 100 similar transplants have been successfully carried out in other countries. They also found that the risk of cancer recurring in the receiver is considered low.

“Generally speaking, a tumor in one person could not grow in another person due to rejective reaction,” said Zhu Tongyu, head of the medical team.

However, the hospital told Ling and her family that there were still risks, and asked them to think carefully before moving forward with the transplant.

After weighing the risks, the family decided to go ahead with it and on January 21 the operation was carried out.

The mother, who has already recovered, was discharged from hospital on Thursday.

The daughter is also recovering well and is expected to return home before the Spring Festival, said the hospital.

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