Graduation Date

Fall 12-18-2015

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Programs

Medical Sciences Interdepartmental Area

First Advisor

Corrine Hanson

Second Advisor

Molly Striek

Third Advisor

Ann Anderson-Berry

Abstract

Background: When determining eligibility for kidney transplantation, body mass index (BMI) is often a debatable criterion for transplant due to the clinical indication, an elevated BMI has adverse effects on kidney transplant outcomes. There is a current gap in research on the effect BMI has on kidney transplant outcomes.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the role BMI plays in post-kidney transplant clinical outcomes including delayed graft function, new onset diabetes after transplant, wound complications, hospital length of stay, albumin, and readmissions to the hospital from initial hospitalization and at six months following kidney transplantation. The primary outcome of this study was to examine the relationship between BMI and delayed graft function. We hypothesize patients with a BMI less than 35 kg/m2 is associated with fewer clinical outcomes during their initial hospitalization up to six months post-kidney transplant.

Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted using a database including 99 patients who have had a kidney transplant and are legal adults aged 19 years or older. Data was collected at initial hospitalization and at six months post kidney transplant. Data was assessed via independent t-test, chi-square, and Mann-Whitney U test.

Results: There was no association between BMI and delayed graft function. However, there was a positive trend between increased BMI and new onset diabetes after transplant. There was also no association between wound complication and increased BMI from the time of transplant up to six months post-kidney transplant.

Conclusion: This study found an elevated BMI is not associated with an increased number of adverse clinical outcomes, but there is a positive trend between increased BMI and new onset diabetes after transplant.

Download

Share

COinS