URGENT UPDATE: SGMC Health in Valdosta, Georgia, has just announced a groundbreaking treatment for patients suffering from resistant high blood pressure, officially known as renal denervation (RDN). This innovative procedure has received FDA approval and aims to address the needs of the nearly 50% of U.S. adults affected by this critical health issue.
High blood pressure remains a significant health risk, contributing to heart attacks and strokes. Alarmingly, about 80% of those diagnosed do not have their blood pressure adequately controlled, even after trying multiple medications and lifestyle changes. The new RDN procedure, utilizing the Symplicity Spyral system, targets overactive nerves near the kidneys, effectively lowering blood pressure levels.
Leading interventional cardiologists, including Edward Distler, DO, Luke Seibolt, MD, and Daryoosh Derakhshan, DO, will perform the procedure at SGMC Health. Dr. Distler emphasized the importance of this advancement, stating,
“Many people struggle with high blood pressure, even when they take multiple medications and make healthy lifestyle changes. This procedure gives us another way to help them bring their numbers down and reduce health risks.”
The RDN procedure is minimally invasive and performed under light sedation. During the process, a small tube is inserted into an artery leading to the kidney, where energy is used to calm the overactive nerves contributing to high blood pressure. Once completed, the tube is removed, leaving no permanent implant behind.
Dr. Distler noted,
“This procedure provides long-lasting benefits without requiring a permanent device in the body. At SGMC Health, we are committed to bringing the latest medical advancements to our community, and we’re proud to offer this new option for people struggling with high blood pressure.”
As the region’s leader in heart care, SGMC Health is dedicated to improving patient outcomes. The facility is the only hospital in the area with a full open-heart surgery program, a structural heart center, and an advanced heart rhythm program. Recognized as a Level I Emergency Cardiac Care Center, SGMC Health is at the forefront of providing essential treatments to local communities.
This new treatment option represents a significant step forward in managing resistant high blood pressure, offering hope to many individuals who have struggled to maintain their health. SGMC Health encourages those affected by this condition to consult their healthcare providers about potential eligibility for the RDN procedure.
As this story develops, stay tuned for more updates on this life-changing treatment that could redefine how high blood pressure is managed in the community.
