Minimally invasive approach provides new hope for patients with hard-to-treat high blood pressure
Abu Dhabi, UAE, October 29, 2024: Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, part of the M42 group, has introduced renal denervation, an innovative procedure for treating resistant hypertension—a form of high blood pressure that remains uncontrolled despite multiple medications and lifestyle changes. This minimally invasive procedure precisely targets kidney nerves, aiming to significantly reduce blood pressure and expand the hospital’s suite of cutting-edge cardiovascular treatments for patients not responding to conventional therapies.
Resistant hypertension presents a serious risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, strokes, and even organ failure. According to the World Health Organization, hypertension remains a leading cause of premature death worldwide. By using renal denervation, patients now have access to a transformative catheter-based therapy that utilizes radiofrequency or ultrasound energy to disrupt overactive nerves surrounding the renal arteries, which play a critical role in elevating blood pressure. This nerve disruption helps to manage and lower blood pressure levels effectively.
Dr. George Haber, CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, stated, “This procedure is a significant advancement in our cardiovascular offerings, furthering our mission to lead in medical innovation and provide transformative, tech-enabled healthcare solutions. Introducing advanced treatments like renal denervation enables us to elevate patient outcomes and redefine healthcare standards across the region. Our commitment to innovation ensures world-class, personalized care that truly enhances patient lives.”
Dr. Ronney Shantouf, Staff Physician in Cardiovascular Medicine at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, emphasized the growing prevalence of hypertension and its often-underestimated impact on health: “Hypertension frequently goes undiagnosed until it leads to serious complications. Many patients face surgical delays due to uncontrolled blood pressure. This procedure now offers a valuable therapeutic option for patients unresponsive to medication.”
The procedure involves the insertion of a slim catheter through a small groin incision, guided to the renal arteries using fluoroscopic imaging. Controlled radiofrequency energy is then applied to disrupt nerve fibers within the sympathetic nerves housed in the arteries, which regulate blood pressure.
The renal denervation procedure is performed under local anesthesia as a single-day intervention, allowing patients to return home shortly after. Noticeable improvements in blood pressure emerge within months, potentially reducing the risks of severe complications such as stroke and heart attack. This effective, safe option for managing resistant hypertension offers both immediate and long-term cardiovascular health benefits.
Dr. Ashraf M. Azzoni, Staff Physician in Cardiovascular Medicine, highlighted the treatment’s significance: “This technology targets the underlying causes of high blood pressure that traditional treatments may struggle to address. Introducing renal denervation to our cardiovascular care arsenal provides a powerful solution for those with resistant hypertension, marking a transformative step in their journey toward better health.”
Performed by a multidisciplinary team of interventional cardiologists, vascular surgeons, and anesthesia specialists, this advanced treatment positions Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi as a leader in world-class medical care, enhancing patient outcomes in Abu Dhabi and beyond.
