Renal denervation to treat resistant hypertension: Guarded optimism

Cleve Clin J Med. 2012 Jul;79(7):501-10. doi: 10.3949/ccjm.79a.12040.

Abstract

Renal sympathetic denervation has shown promise in treating hypertension resistant to drug therapy. This procedure lowers blood pressure via targeted attenuation of renal sympathetic tone, and it has a favorable safety profile. But although there is reason for cautious optimism, we should keep in mind that the mechanisms of hypertension are complex and multifactorial, and further study of this novel therapy and its long-term effects is needed.

MeSH terms

  • Catheter Ablation / methods*
  • Humans
  • Hypertension / etiology
  • Hypertension / therapy*
  • Kidney / innervation*
  • Kidney / physiology
  • Renal Artery / innervation*
  • Renal Artery / physiopathology
  • Sympathectomy / adverse effects
  • Sympathectomy / methods*