Renal denervation (RDN) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat high blood pressure, particularly in patients who have resistant hypertension—a condition where blood pressure remains high despite taking three or more medications.
The procedure targets the nerves in the renal arteries, the main blood vessels that supply the kidneys. These nerves are part of the sympathetic nervous system and can become overactive, causing a persistent rise in blood pressure.
During the procedure, an interventional cardiologist inserts a thin, flexible catheter into an artery, typically in the leg. They then guide this catheter up to the renal arteries. Once in place, the catheter delivers controlled energy—either radiofrequency (heat) or ultrasound—to the artery walls. This energy gently ablates, or deactivates, the overactive nerves without damaging the artery itself.
The goal is to “turn down” the nerve signals that are contributing to high blood pressure, leading to a sustained and significant drop in pressure over time.
Why It’s an Important Advancement
RDN is a major step forward because it offers a new, non-drug-based option for patients who have exhausted traditional treatments. It provides a continuous, “always-on” reduction in blood pressure, potentially reducing the daily burden of taking multiple medications and lowering the risk of life-threatening events like heart attack and stroke.
MBH/AB