UK's First Ever Double Hand Transplant

The first person in the UK to receive a double hand transplant says he is now looking forward to holding a bottle of beer and wearing shirts with real buttons again.

Chris King, 57, lost both his hands – except the thumbs – in an accident involving a metal pressing machine at work, three years ago.

Now, he has become the first person to have a double hand transplant, and only the second to have a hand transplant in the UK.

Mr King recalled how doctors in Sheffield talked about reconstructive surgery and other options but said: "Something was telling me, no. There's something better out there."

One of the team in Sheffield referred him to consultant plastic surgeon Professor Simon Kay at Leeds General Infirmary, who introduced him to Mark Cahill – the first person in the UK to have a hand transplant.

Mr Cahill encouraged him to have the operation, and the two are now good friends.

Mr King is keen to emphasise the important of people coming forward to be donors. He said:

"There are probably people out there who don't know about this still. They can have something better. We want as many donors as we can.

"Even if you don't have a card, just have the conversation with your family. There's no greater gift."

If you have been injured in an accident at work, you may be entitled to compensation. Speak to our team on 0800 567 7272 for more information.

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Work Accident Solicitors