One kidney One kidney - I may not be able to have VSG?

[prsist1869 4]

I spoke with the nurse at the WLS Center and she said because I only have one kidney, I may not be able to have WLS. When I asked why, she said because I'll be required to consume 60-80g Protein per day and the kidney functions as a filter for Protein. I know this, however, I was told by my nephrologist years ago that we only needed 1/2 kidney to survive.

Has anyone else had this issue? Thanks. I really need this procedure and I don't want the fact I donated a kidney to prohibit me from being healthy.

[Sassygirl06 962]

I sure hope it doesn't stop you. Perhaps because you donated the kidney and didn't lose it do to health issues will tip the scales in your favor. Either way, wow...I am empressed by your selfless act of kindness to someone in need! I sure hope it helped the recipient!

[kathp 81]

I sure hope it doesn't stop you. Yes, there's a high Protein goal, but you're not having it all in one sitting. I would actually ask the nephrologist, too.

[EarthWormJenn 13]

That makes no sense to me personally. I am pursuing the gastric sleeve in order to help with the functioning of half a liver. I would think that as long as the kidney is healthy. I would seek an outside source or ask to speak with the surgeon and hear directly from his lips. Or maybe call and ask another physician on their thoughts about the gastric sleeve and one kidney and how it would affect. I think with any procedure the weighing of help over harm should be the primary focus. Will the sleeve do more harm to your current health or will it improve the quality of life/health for you?

[unbesleevable1 420]

could you eat a high Protein diet now? would you? it shouldn't make any difference post op. your nephrologist can probably clear you. I see the concern, in theory, but as long as you understand the risks..

[prsist1869 4]

Thank you all for your encouraging words and insight. I am going to speak with the surgeon on October 2nd. I will explain to him that I eat a lot of Protein now and am, in fact, following their pre-surgery diet. Everything I've read indicates that as long as the kidney is healthy and I haven't had any issues I should be fine. Also, as long as I take all the Vitamins required, get the fluids needed, I should do really well. I think with most people who've had kidney issues, this could be a huge factor i.e. kidney stones, infection, UTIs, etc. I've NEVER had those issues and my labs have all come out well, so ... I don't see the problem. Hopefully, when I speak with the surgeon, he'll be on board. The other surgeon I consulted, who is part of a 'Center of Excellence' didn't have an issue with my only having one kidney. From everything my nephrologist said over 20 years ago when I had the surgery, most people can function with 1/2 a kidney. We'll see what happens.

[Mstrosec 28]

I honestly don't think it should be an issue. I have one kidney (and my surgeon was well aware of it prior to surgery) and have had absolutely no issues with Protein or Water. I've also never had a kidney stone. That being said, I'm hyper vigilant to watch for any and all signs that may be related to a UTI or kidney issues. Good luck to you!

[ItsMe2033 143]

Here's the thing about Protein and kidneys. Your kidneys filter the waste product of excess protein consumption. If you need 70 grams per day of protein and you consume 70 grams per day then your kidneys only have to filter the normal protein breakdown products from the body's normal metabolism. Since you only have one kidney then you would need to be careful than most people to not consume too much protein, but I don't think it will be a problem. You might get a study done on your daily protein balance so you can better know what level is needed for you. You should probably see a kidney specialist about this as well, because it may be outside the knowledge of your surgeon.

[prsist1869 4]

Mstrosec, it's good to know you've not had any issues. I don't think I will either. I have always been very careful and hypersensitive with regard to nsaids and like products - I don't use them. Since VSG won't allow you to take them, it's not going to be a problem. Every creatnin clearance test I've had has come back well within the limits. I read about Protein and what's considered toxic - what we're required to eat/consume is not at a high enough level to be considered toxic. I just hope the doctor is not as unreasonable as the nurse seemed.

However, if I have to get a letter from a nephrologist, I'll do so. I may do it anyway, just to be safe (ItsMe2033).

Thank you guys again for your insight - I'm sure I'll ask more questions.