Obesity management in the liver transplant recipient: the role of bariatric surgery.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The epidemic of obesity is having a marked impact on liver transplant candidates and recipients, and optimal approach for the obese liver transplant patient is not yet defined. The current review summarizes the role of bariatric surgery in obese liver transplant patients.

RECENT FINDINGS: NASH is now the second most common indication for listing for liver transplantation and is the third most common reason for patients undergoing liver transplantation. Recent reports of outcomes for obese recipients demonstrate satisfactory patient and graft survival, though complication rates may be higher. The impact of weight loss on long-term health in the nontransplant population, including those with liver disease, has been demonstrated, though less in known on the impact for weight loss and bariatric surgery for liver transplant recipients.

SUMMARY: Obesity-related liver disease has become one of the most common indications for liver transplantation and further research is needed to determine the role of bariatric surgery in the optimal management of this population.