Abstract
Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of catheter-based radiofrequency renal sympathetic denervation for treatment of resistant hypertension.
Background

In a subpopulation of patients with essential hypertension, therapeutic targets are not met, despite the use of multiple types of medication. In this paper we describe our first experience with a novel percutaneous treatment modality using renal artery radiofrequency (RF) ablation.
Methods

Thirty patients with essential hypertension unresponsive to at least three types of antihypertensive medical therapy (baseline office systolic blood pressure ⩾160 mmHg) were selected between March and September 2012 and received percutaneous RF ablation. Patients were followed up for 6 months after treatment. The primary effectiveness endpoint was change in seated office-based measurement of systolic blood pressure at 6 months. Another thirty patients were taken as control.
Results

A reduction of mean office blood pressure was seen from 170/102 ± 9/5 mmHg at baseline to 151/91 ± 8/6 mmHg at 6 months follow-up (p = 0.001). Also, we noted a significant decrease in plasma renin activity (3.66 ± 0.64 versus 3.37 ± 0.47 ng/mL/h; p = 0.003). No periprocedural complications, adverse events or change in renal function were noted during follow-up.
Conclusion

Catheter-based renal denervation seems an attractive minimally invasive treatment option in patients with resistant hypertension, with a low risk of serious adverse events.