The concept of head transplantation, once relegated to the realm of science fiction, is experiencing renewed interest from life-extension advocates and Silicon Valley startups, despite skepticism surrounding its feasibility. Italian neurosurgeon Sergio Canavero, who gained notoriety in 2017 for claiming a successful head transplant between two corpses in China, has long championed the procedure as a potential solution for aging and debilitating diseases.
Canavero's proposed technique involves severing the head of a patient suffering from conditions like muscular dystrophy or spinal muscular atrophy and attaching it to a donor body. The procedure, which he calls HEAVEN (head anastomosis venture), aims to fuse the spinal cords using polyethylene glycol, a chemical compound known for its potential to promote nerve regeneration. "It's become absolutely clear over the past years that the idea of some incredible tech to rejuvenate elderly [people] is not on the horizon," Canavero stated, explaining his motivation for pursuing such a radical approach.
However, the medical community remains largely unconvinced. Critics point to the immense technical challenges involved, including the risk of immune rejection, the difficulty of reconnecting the spinal cord to restore motor function, and the ethical considerations surrounding such a complex and potentially life-altering surgery. The Chicago Tribune, for instance, previously labeled Canavero "the P.T. Barnum of transplantation," reflecting the widespread doubt surrounding his claims.
Canavero's career has faced setbacks as a result of his controversial ideas. After publishing his surgical concepts a decade ago, he says he was dismissed from Molinette Hospital in Turin, where he had worked for 22 years. "I'm an out-of-the-establishment guy. So that has made things harder, I have to say," Canavero said.
Despite the challenges and criticism, Canavero maintains that head transplantation offers the only viable solution for individuals facing terminal illnesses and the effects of aging. While he has withdrawn from the public spotlight, he asserts that the concept is gaining traction within certain circles, particularly among those seeking radical life extension. The future of head transplantation remains uncertain, but the renewed interest suggests that the debate surrounding this controversial procedure is far from over.
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