Hand transplant patient lost limb through gout

The hospital said Mr Cahill lost the use of his right hand due to severe gout. Leeds Teaching Hospitals announced in late 2011 that it was looking for potential candidates for hand or arm transplants. The team had been preparing and assessing potential recipients from across the country.

Potential patients went through health checks and psychological assessment before being considered for the procedure. Mr Cahill was part of the programme and was one of two potential candidates when a donated limb became available. He was selected because he was the best tissue match.