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Bariatric Surgery/One Kidney vs WLS

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Expert: - 2/28/2008


Question
Hi Dr Pilcher
I am 43 years old with BMI of 46. In 06 I lost my left kidney due to Renal cell carsonima I could only have explory surgury due to size of the mass and to check my other organs . I'm in the process of researching WLS and am leaning towards VSG, if my insurance will cover it. This is my choice because of the foreign object concern with the lapband.  But if my insurance does not cover the VSG. Would the RNY be to invacive due to possible protein  issues with one kidney? or Reoccuring anemia issues?

Answer
Angela,
This is a sensible question.  It's a fact that when an organ system is weakened (for example, by removing one kidney) that the chance of problems from surgery may be higher.

However, news is mostly good on this for you.  As long as no other complex medical issues come into play, your surgeon should be able to bring you through gastric bypass with acceptable risk.  In my experience, lower protein intake after gastric bypass has not been a significant problem for patients with renal insufficiency, and the long term benefits of reduced weight are much more significant.

Best of luck!
Dr JP

Bariatric Surgery

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Volunteer

John Pilcher, MD

Expertise

I can answer medically oriented questions about bariatric surgery including: patient selection, preparation for surgery, differences between types of bariatric surgery, aftercare following bariatric surgery. I can answer detailed questions about gastric bypass, Lap-Band, gastric sleeve, and revision bariatric surgery. I am only somewhat familiar with Biliopancreatic diversion. I am not prepared to answer insurance or other financial questions related to bariatric surgery.

Experience

I have been a practicing bariatric surgeon since 1995. About 85% of my current practice consists of bariatric surgery, including all of the above procedures except biliopancreatic diversion. I am the senior surgeon of a 5-surgeon group. I am recognized among surgeons and other medical professionals as the most experienced bariatric surgeon in my region.

Organizations
Fellow of American College of Surgeons Member, American Society for Bariatric Surgery

Education/Credentials
BA in Biochemistry - University of Virginia Medical Degree - University of Virginia Surgical Residency - University of Virginia

Awards and Honors
Alpha Omega Alpha

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