World First: Former Icelandic electrician gets double arm and shoulder transplant 23 years after horrific accident – TheLiberal.ie – Our News, Your Views

World First: Former Icelandic electrician gets double arm and shoulder transplant 23 years after horrific accident




Image source: Felix Gretarsson/Facebook

In a world first, Felix Gretarsson, a 48-yr-old former electrician from Iceland has survived a pioneering 14 hours double arm and shoulder transplant operation that involved 50 medical professionals. This world’s first double arm and shoulder transplant included Prof. Jean-Michel Dudernard, who also performed the world’s first hand transplant.

in January 1998, Mr Gretarsson was working as an electrician when a massive 11,000 volt surge scorched his hands. His medical team placed him in an induced coma for three months which eventually led to the amputation of both his arms.

After the accident, Mr Gretarsson struggled with depression and drug addiction.
According to the Metro, he said, “fortunately, there came a day of awakening. I realised I was much stronger than I thought and the world is full of good people who can help us navigate our difficulties”.

He found a new career as a life coach and he updates his followers and clients from his website here.

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