【明報專訊】On 20 August 2010, a combined heart and liver transplant was carried out at Queen Mary Hospital. It was a success. The patient, Jackie, was a 26-year-old woman diagnosed with a rare hereditary (遺傳的) disease. The risk of separate heart and liver transplants is 7% and 2% respectively. That of a combined one is 10%. The success is considered an important breakthrough in Hong Kong medicine.
The successful operation has not only benefited Jackie. It has started a chain reaction. Jackie, who had received a deceased youngster's heart and liver, donated the healthy parts of her liver to a 62-year-old man diagnosed with liver cancer. At the same time, another patient received a kidney from the man. The success not only evidences the advancement of medical technology but has encouraged citizens to donate their organs too. Since the transplant took place, more families have indicated their willingness to donate their deceased relatives' organs.
■Did you know...
Not every part of the body can be donated. Organs that can now be transplanted include kidneys, livers, hearts and lungs. Tissues such as cornea (角膜), bone and skin may also be donated.
■Keywords
surgery……外科手術
physical health……生理健康
medical technology……醫療科技
■Questions
1.What is the breakthrough in Hong Kong medicine mentioned in the article?
2.Why has the successful transplant encouraged organ donation?
3.In what way is organ donation important to the society?
■Further readings
Department of Health (Organ Donation):http://www.organdonation.gov.hk
