Bariatric surgery, hyperoxaluria, and nephrolithiasis: a plea for close postoperative management of risk factors

Hyperoxaluria contributes significant risk for kidney stone development. It can result from disordered metabolism, excessive intake of oxalate or other nutrients, or alterations of bowel flora and function. Sinha et al. show that individuals undergoing Roux-en-Y bypass have high rates of stone disease, both before and after their procedure. Whether or not the incidence of stone events is increased after surgery, hyperoxaluria should be addressed. After Roux-en-Y, it is important for patients to maintain high urine outputs, to limit fat intake, and to ingest adequate amounts of calcium.