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A collaborative research between a bariatric and transplant surgery team has provided new hope for individuals suffering from end stage renal disease (ESRD) and obesity. The study authors examined the metabolic and outcomes of bariatric surgery in ESRD patients, as well as whether such surgery could increase their eligibility for kidney transplantation. The findings are reported in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons.
“Obesity is a pervasive problem in the United States, significantly impacting transplant eligibility. We founded the CORT Initiative – a collaborative for obesity research in transplant – recognizing the urgent need to address this issue. , especially in underserved populations that suffer most from obesity-related diseases,” related study author Anil Parmesh, MD, MBA, FACS, professor of surgery, urology and pediatrics and kidney and pancreas transplantation at Tulane University School of Medicine. said the director of programs.
Also read: Kidney donation: Prerequisites for kidney transplant, who can donate and everything you need to know
Patients with ESRD face many difficulties without a transplant; Dr. Parmesh said that their only option is to prolong life through dialysis, a process which is not only expensive and time consuming but also significantly reduces the quality of life.
The study, conducted between January 2019 and June 2023, included 183 ESRD patients referred for bariatric surgery, of whom 36 underwent weight loss surgery and 10 later received kidney transplants. Results showed a 27% reduction in average BMI at the time of transplant, along with improvements in hypertension and diabetes management. This improvement in the management of comorbid conditions increased the overall health and transplant feasibility of patients.
Dr. Parmesh said that while obesity is a leading cause of transplant exclusion, this collaborative program offers a path forward for patients who were previously ineligible and can help pave the way for increased patient education and access.
“We have seen that bariatric surgery is not just about weight loss; it also significantly improves other serious conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and sleep apnea. This approach not only helps reduce patients’ weight to that level. “Receiving a transplant also addresses the broader issue of health care disparities that particularly affect Black and low-income individuals,” said Dr. Parmesh. Does.”
However, the study also faced challenges, including a high drop-off rate of patients unwilling or unable to undergo surgery and unique postoperative complications such as hypotension.
Dr. Parmesh said, “Our findings indicate an urgent need to increase patient education and support to ensure that potential candidates understand the benefits of weight loss surgery and its role in improving their eligibility for transplant. Understand.”
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