A Miraculous Third Kidney Transplant Leaves Scientist with Five Organs

New Delhi, India—In a truly extraordinary and medically unprecedented case, a 47-year-old scientist now holds five kidneys in his body after a third successful transplant. Devendra Barlewar, a defense ministry scientist, received a rare multi-organ donation, making his recovery one of the most remarkable in medical history.

The Unique Case of Devendra Barlewar

Barlewar’s journey with chronic kidney disease (CKD) began in 2010, when he received his first donated kidney from his mother. Unfortunately, after one year, dialysis became necessary again. In 2012, he received a second kidney from a relative, which lasted until 2022. When he contracted Covid-19, Barlewar returned to dialysis once more.

In 2023, desperate for a third kidney, Barlewar enlisted the help of a deceased donor when no living donors were available. The family of a brain-dead farmer consented to a multi-organ donation, including a kidney, which offered Barlewar the chance at a new life.

Challenges of a Third Kidney Transplant

Medical experts note that achieving a third kidney transplant is extremely rare. The difficulty lies not only in finding compatible donors three times in one’s lifetime but also in creating extra space for the new organ within the body.

Dr. Anil Sharma, a senior consultant and head of urology at Amrita Hospital in Faridabad, spearheaded the intricate surgery on January 9, 2024, once a compatible brain-dead donor was identified. The four-hour procedure culminated in successful kidney function with urine production.

Highlights of the Surgical Procedures

The third donated kidney was strategically placed on the right side between Barlewar’s existing native and other transplanted kidneys. Post-surgery, Barlewar required constant monitoring for potential signs of organ rejection or surgical complications such as bleeding.

Dr. Sharma outlined several challenges encountered during the surgery: the prolonged chronic kidney disease and previous failed transplants increased the risk of organ rejection. Additionally, the presence of four existing kidneys complicated the placement of the fifth organ, and an existing incisional hernia added to the difficulty.

Managing immune suppression to prevent organ rejection while guarding against infection was crucial. Careful planning for vascular connections was necessary as blood vessels from previous transplants were already utilized.

Positive Outcome and Future Prospects

Though the surgery was complex, Barlewar was successfully discharged after 10 days with normal kidney function, no longer requiring dialysis. Barlewar, now weighing 44 kg, expressed his deep gratitude for this unique chance at life.

“To me, this seems like divine intervention, a third chance at life,” Barlewar said, emphasizing the scarcity of kidney donors.

He plans to resume regular activities after a three-month rest period, noting that he still considers himself fortunate for the opportunity to receive a third kidney, a challenge many face.

Embracing a New Chapter

This groundbreaking case highlights the importance of organ donation and sharing. Barlewar’s story serves as a powerful reminder of how medical science can sometimes defy odds, offering renewed hope to those battling chronic kidney disease.

For patients facing similar circumstances, Barlewar’s journey provides an example of perseverance and faith. His resilience and the medical team’s dedication have contributed to what is an extraordinary medical achievement.

Conclusion

Devendra Barlewar’s third successful kidney transplant has left him with a remarkable five kidneys, only one of which functions. The case underscores the challenges and successes of chronic kidney disease management and the importance of organ donation. His inspiring recovery story aims to raise awareness and encourage more individuals to consider organ donation, potentially saving countless lives.

For Barlewar, life is about to take another turn, one filled with hope and gratitude. His story stands as a testament to human resilience and medical progress.