Author: Richard R. Heuser, M.D., FACC, FACP, FESC, FSCAI

You probably know that hypertension (high blood pressure) can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. But did you know that one in four adults in the U.S. has high blood pressure? Considering that many adults are unaware of their condition, it’s no wonder that hypertension is often referred to as “the silent killer.” Fortunately, new hypertension treatments are on the horizon.

Renal Denervation

Many patients with hypertension are already taking prescription medication for their blood pressure and other conditions. When at all possible, I support treating patients without the use of medication, as patients can enjoy a higher quality of life and, in some cases, a better outcome. A new treatment for high blood pressure known as “renal denervation” (RDN) now puts that goal within reach.

With RDN, patients receive local anesthesia. A small device is threaded through the arteries to the kidneys, guided by x-ray images. Once the device reaches the kidneys, high frequency signals are used to “burn” high activity nerves. This opens up blood flow to the kidneys, reducing hypertension and, therefore, the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Currently, there are at least five renal denervation catheter systems with CE Mark approval. This means that renal denervation is still a relatively new hypertension treatment that is not widely available. However, renal denervation is expected to become more widely used as a treatment modality for high blood pressure in the near future.

ROX Coupler Placement

Another new hypertension treatment option is the ROX Coupler placement. This device, once implanted, reroutes blood from an artery to a vein in the upper thigh, resulting in a lowering of blood pressure. The minimally invasive procedure is catheter-based and performed under general anesthesia.

The ROX Coupler placement opens up the possibility of living without hypertension medications, something many patients who have undergone the procedure would never have dreamed of before.

Are you at risk for high blood pressure? Use our self-assessment tool to find out. Call Phoenix Heart Center at 602-234-0004 for more information.
Please consult with your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines.