In today's mad science story, one surgical team claims to be within striking distance of achieving human head transplants. 2017 is named as a possible date.
What's involved? Well:
First, the recipient’s head would have to be cooled to keep the cells alive, as would the recently deceased donor. Next, the neck is cut into and the blood vessels are hooked up by a series of small tubes. After the spinal cords are neatly severed, the head is then moved onto the donor body, which is ready for the trickiest and most crucial part: joining up the ends of the spinal cords.
One intriguing angle:
Alongside the ethical considerations of such a surgery, some have expressed concerns that it could lead to people wanting to exchange their bodies for cosmetic reasons, so obviously if it does become legalized, strict regulations will have to be in place.
(thanks to Mark Vickers; photo by Mick Amato)
At last, the Head of Vecna will be a reality.
Posted by: Steven Kaye | February 26, 2015 at 17:51
Well, you *could* do it now. Since it doesn't work.
Posted by: Bryan Alexander | February 26, 2015 at 18:12