Suffering from Resistant Hypertension?

Hypertension is a very common medical problem affecting nearly one third of the adult population in India. Studies over the years have shown that reducing the BP does reduce the events of heart attack, stroke and death. Lowering the blood pressure by 5 mmHg is shown to reduce stroke by an estimated 34%, ischemic heart disease by 21% and death by 13%.

The right combination of drugs is important for the management of hypertension. Sometimes despite the right combination of drugs and compliance with medications and lifestyle, blood pressure remains high for few patients. For these patients who also have ruled out other secondary causes of hypertension, a newer treatment modality has emerged called Renal denervation (RDN) and has been proven to reduce blood pressure in studies.

What is renal denervation and how is it performed?
The renal denervation (RDN) procedure is a minimally invasive technique that targets nerves near the kidneys that can become overactive and the main reason for elevated blood pressure. In this procedure, a small catheter (wire like device) is inserted through a tiny puncture into the right groin artery and is taken up to the kidney artery. The doctor then uses the catheter to calm the excessive activity of the nerves connected to the kidney. The tube is removed, leaving no implant behind. The procedure is very safe and can take up to1 hour. The patient can be discharged the next day and can go back to normal life as before.

What are the benefits of renal denervation?
RDN is highly effective in controlling blood pressure and more importantly the number of antihypertensive medications come down significantly after the therapy. The results of RDN therapy are long lasting with continued benefits as long as 10 years post therapy.

Who is an ideal candidate for RDN?
1. Patients with resistant or uncontrolled blood pressure despite taking multiple medications. 
2. Patients with high blood pressure and are unable to take medications due to adverse effects of drugs.

Featuring insights from Dr. Refai Showkathali, Cardiology, Apollo Hospitals, Greams Lane, Chennai

📞 For appointments, call Apollo Hospitals Chennai at 044 4040 1066