In a remarkable medical feat, a British man has undergone surgery to remove what are believed to be the “heaviest kidneys in the world.” Warren Higgs, 54, who suffers from Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), had his kidneys removed at Churchill Hospital in Oxford. Together, the organs weighed a staggering 74 pounds.
PKD causes the growth of numerous fluid-filled cysts within the kidneys, leading to significant enlargement and eventual organ failure. For Higgs, the condition had a devastating impact, leaving him unable to eat solid food and causing his kidneys to compress his lungs, stomach, and heart.
Speaking to the BBC, Higgs described the incredible feat: “The surgeon had confirmed it all, and yes, we’ve beaten it [the record] in every single way you measure it.” He emphasized that this record was not one he sought, but rather a consequence of the debilitating disease.
Prior to the surgery, Higgs faced immense challenges. “It’s hard to be positive really, it’s a horrible disease. It’s painful, and it’s slow,” he shared with BerkshireLive. He relied heavily on morphine to manage the constant pain.
Now, while undergoing dialysis every two days, Higgs is optimistic about his future. He is regaining his strength and has even set his sights on participating in a triathlon in 2022, using a crowdfunded recumbent electric bicycle.
This remarkable medical achievement offers hope to others living with PKD, demonstrating the advancements in medical technology and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.