Renal trauma is linked to higher long-term hypertension risk

In this interview, Jane T. Kurtzman, MD, an assistant professor of surgery in the division of urology at the University of Utah Health in Salt Lake City, discusses her team’s recent study evaluating the risk of developing de novo hypertension following renal trauma.¹ The research utilized the MarketScan database, a large claims-based resource that enables extended follow-up beyond what is typically possible in smaller institutional datasets. The goal was to determine whether patients who sustain renal trauma are at higher risk of developing hypertension compared with matched controls.

The findings were notable: 35% of patients with renal trauma developed new-onset hypertension, compared with 21% of controls. Kurtzman emphasized that although this association is important, it should not alter acute clinical decision-making at the time of trauma, when stabilization and immediate management remain the top priorities. Instead, the results highlight the need for proactive counseling and long-term monitoring of this patient population.

Kurtzman stressed that the study underscores the responsibility of urologists and trauma providers to ensure patients are connected with primary care after discharge. Hypertension often develops insidiously, and trauma patients—who frequently come from underserved or underinsured populations—may face barriers to consistent follow-up. Given the demonstrated elevated risk, clinicians should emphasize the importance of blood pressure surveillance and primary care engagement during post-trauma recovery.

Overall, the study provides the first large-scale evidence linking renal trauma with increased rates of de novo hypertension. Its findings call for improved continuity of care, particularly in vulnerable patient groups. As Kurtzman concludes, the results are less about changing immediate trauma management and more about shaping long-term care strategies that protect patients’ cardiovascular health after recovery.

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