Data point to value of hypertension counseling following renal trauma

In this video, Jane T. Kurtzman, MD, an assistant professor of surgery in the division of urology at the University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, discusses findings from her study on the long-term risk of hypertension following renal trauma.¹ She notes that factors such as age, comorbidity burden, smoking, obesity, and alcohol use—although not surprising—help validate the study’s results. Their presence reinforces that the observed increased risk of hypertension among renal trauma patients is likely real and clinically meaningful. For patients with multiple comorbidities or lifestyle risks, she emphasizes the importance of stronger counseling about ongoing primary care follow-up.

Kurtzman underscores the collaborative role of urologists and trauma surgeons in addressing this issue. Although these specialists cannot provide long-term blood pressure management themselves, they are positioned at the front lines during and after trauma care. She recommends that they use this opportunity to counsel patients about the importance of follow-up with primary care physicians. Given that many trauma patients come from underserved communities with high rates of uninsurance and limited access to health care, she stresses the need for systems-level solutions that connect these individuals with accessible, affordable clinics.

Regarding monitoring, Kurtzman explains that the study’s claims data do not allow for defining a precise follow-up protocol. However, Kaplan-Meier curves suggest a steadily rising risk of hypertension over the years after injury. Based on this, she advises counseling patients to see a primary care provider annually for blood pressure checks as a practical and reasonable approach.

The key takeaway for practicing urologists, Kurtzman concludes, is to recognize hypertension as a significant long-term risk in renal trauma patients. Although acknowledging the limitations of administrative data, she said she believes the evidence is strong enough to warrant routine counseling. Importantly, because many of these patients are otherwise young and healthy, awareness of this added risk factor is essential for lifelong health management.

REFERENCE

1. Kurtzman JT, Swallow M, Horns JJ, Woodle T, McCormick B, Myers JB. Risk of hypertension after renal trauma: an analysis of a large insurance claims database. Urology. 2025 Jul 23:S0090-4295(25)00712-5. doi:10.1016/j.urology.2025.07.045