Is this new hypertension procedure right for you?

For those living with high blood pressure, keeping their numbers under control can be a daily challenge. Even with lifestyle changes and multiple medications, some patients continue to struggle with hypertension, leaving them at increased risk for heart attack, stroke, kidney disease and other serious health complications.

A newer treatment option called renal artery denervation (RDN) is offering hope for certain patients whose blood pressure remains elevated despite treatment.

What is renal artery denervation?

A minimally invasive procedure, RDN targets overactive nerves surrounding the renal arteries, which supply blood to the kidneys. These nerves can contribute to high blood pressure by sending signals that cause the body to retain fluid and constrict blood vessels.

“High blood pressure is often driven by a combination of factors, and overactive nerves around the kidneys can play a role,” says Dr. Thomas Levin, an interventional cardiologist at Advocate Health Care. “Renal denervation allows us to address one of the underlying contributors to hypertension in a way that complements medications and healthy lifestyle choices.”

During the procedure, a doctor inserts a thin catheter through an artery in the groin or wrist and guides it to the renal arteries. The catheter then delivers targeted energy to disrupt the overactive nerves. The procedure typically takes less than an hour, and most patients return home the same day.

Are you eligible for RDN?

Renal denervation isn’t intended to replace blood pressure medications, but it may help lower blood pressure. You may be eligible for the procedure if you have uncontrolled hypertension despite taking prescribed medications or have difficulty maintaining consistent blood pressure.

“We look at the whole patient when determining whether renal denervation is the right option,” Dr. Levin says. “For individuals whose blood pressure remains elevated despite their best efforts, this procedure can be an important additional tool to help reduce long-term cardiovascular risk.”

How chronic hypertension affects your health

Because high blood pressure often has no symptoms, many people are unaware of the damage it can cause over time.

“The most important message is that patients shouldn’t ignore elevated blood pressure readings,” Dr. Levin says. “If medications and lifestyle modifications are not enough, there may be additional options available. The earlier we gain control of hypertension, the better we can protect a patient’s heart, brain and kidneys for the future.”

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