Scientists have linked bariatric surgery with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients to see if it helps them become eligible for a kidney transplant
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons (JACS) looks at the potential of weight loss surgery to provide ESRD patients with life-saving kidney transplants.
Weight loss and the likelihood of having a kidney transplant
Led by Dr Anil Paramesh, a professor of surgery, urology, and paediatrics at Tulane University School of Medicine, the study looks into the outcomes of metabolic and bariatric surgery in ESRD patients.
It aimed to investigate whether such surgery and weight loss could enhance their eligibility for kidney transplants.
“Obesity is a worsening problem in the United States, significantly impacting transplant eligibility. We established the CORT initiative – a collaborative for obesity research in transplantation – recognising the urgent need to address this issue, especially in underserved populations suffering the most from obesity-related diseases,” said Dr. Paramesh.
For patients with ESRD, there are barely any options: either endure dialysis or hope for a life-saving transplant. Transplants, however, often remain elusive due to complicating factors such as obesity.
Dialysis, while life-prolonging, exacts a toll on quality of life and imposes significant financial and time commitments on patients.
Using bariatric surgery for ESRD patients
The study from January 2019 to June 2023 followed 183 ESRD patients referred for bariatric surgery. From these, 36 underwent weight loss surgery, with ten subsequently receiving kidney transplants.
The results were promising, with a 27% reduction in average BMI at the time of transplant. Improvements were observed in managing hypertension and diabetes, factors crucial for enhancing overall health and transplant viability.
Dr. Paramesh emphasised the broader implications of the findings, highlighting the potential for increased access to transplants and addressing healthcare disparities. Bariatric surgery, he noted, not only facilitates weight loss but also tackles underlying health conditions, thereby amplifying the chances of transplant success.
Future challenges
However, the study encountered obstacles, including a high drop-off rate among patients unwilling or unable to undergo surgery. These challenges show the importance of maintaining patient education and support to ensure informed decision-making regarding the benefits of weight loss surgery.
The authors advocate for further research to explore the subtle complications ESRD patients may experience post-weight loss surgery. By looking deeper into these complexities, the medical community can refine protocols and optimise outcomes for this vulnerable patient population.
