Northside Hospital is pleased to announce the treatment of the first patient with a new renal denervation (RDN) procedure, now offered to select patients with high blood pressure.
Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in November 2023, the Symplicity Spyral RDN system involves a minimally invasive procedure that targets nerves near the kidneys that can become overactive, causing high blood pressure.
The procedure — also known as the Symplicity™ blood pressure procedure — is approved for use as an adjunctive treatment in patients with high blood pressure (or hypertension) when lifestyle changes and antihypertensive medications do not adequately control blood pressure.
Interventional cardiologists Dr. Pradyumna E. Tummala and Dr. Christopher R. Leach successfully performed the first surgery on May 8 at Northside Hospital Forsyth.
The Symplicity blood pressure procedure is clinically proven to help reduce high blood pressure, which can lower serious health risks. After mild sedation, the doctor inserts a very thin tube into the artery leading to the kidney. The doctor then administers energy to calm the excessive activity of the nerves connected to the kidney. The tube is removed, leaving no implant behind.
“Renal denervation is a new minimally invasive treatment that can significantly help patients with difficult-to-control hypertension improve their care and reduce their risk for cardiovascular complications of high blood pressure,” Dr. Tummala said.
“Although it usually does not 'cure' hypertension, it has been shown to statistically improve blood pressure numbers and potentially reduce the number of medications a patient may require to control their condition,” Dr. Leach added.
High blood pressure is a significant issue for patients worldwide. For people with hypertension, medication and/or lifestyle changes can help reduce blood pressure.
The Symplicity blood pressure procedure can provide patients with a blood pressure reduction benefit that is ‘always on’ and doesn’t require a permanent implant — it can also help patients regain their peace of mind.
“We are pleased to have treated our first patient with this new technology, and we look forward to the future of hypertension care by offering innovative solutions to the people of the North Georgia region,” said Billie Slinde, director of program development & quality for Northside Hospital Heart Institute.
If you or someone you know is experiencing high or difficult-to-control blood pressure, consult your doctor to determine if the Symplicity blood pressure procedure is a suitable treatment option.
Learn more about Northside Hospital Heart Institute.
