Loma Linda University Health has introduced a new treatment for patients with resistant hypertension, leveraging the recently approved renal denervation (RDN) procedure through the Symplicity Spyral system.
The FDA-approved method aims to lower high blood pressure by targeting overactive nerves near the kidneys, providing an alternative for patients whose conditions have not improved with standard therapies.
Loma Linda University Health interventional cardiology director Vinoy Prasad said the new option fills a critical treatment gap for patients living with chronic high blood pressure.
Prasad added: “This procedure represents a valuable next step for patients who have exhausted first-line treatments but still face cardiovascular risks. Renal denervation gives us a way to calm the overactive nerves that may be contributing to a patient’s high blood pressure, without leaving any implant behind.”
The RDN procedure involves inserting a thin catheter into a blood vessel to access the arteries near the kidneys. Physicians then apply controlled energy to disrupt nerve signals that contribute to high blood pressure, with the catheter removed after the process, leaving no implants in the body. Conducted under mild sedation, this treatment usually requires minimal recovery time.
Loma Linda University Health is integrating this advanced medical procedure into its cardiovascular care offerings, aligning with its mission to deliver comprehensive, faith-based healthcare. While RDN is not a primary treatment, it may benefit patients who have not achieved desired blood pressure levels despite multiple medications.
The institution also operates a specialised Hypertension Clinic, led by Dr Alec Kherlopian, which focuses on identifying reversible causes, encouraging lifestyle changes, and initiating medical therapy with thorough blood pressure monitoring. This clinic is a key component of the broader Renal Denervation program, emphasising prevention and proactive disease management.
