Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Introduces Renal Denervation Procedure To Treat Resistant Hypertension

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, part of the M42 group, has launched a new procedure called renal denervation. This treatment targets resistant hypertension, where high blood pressure persists despite medication and lifestyle changes. The minimally invasive technique focuses on kidney nerves to lower blood pressure, adding to the hospital's advanced cardiovascular treatments for patients unresponsive to traditional therapies.

Resistant hypertension significantly increases the risk of severe cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes. The World Health Organization identifies hypertension as a leading cause of early deaths worldwide. Renal denervation offers a catheter-based solution using radiofrequency or ultrasound energy to disrupt overactive nerves around the renal arteries, which are crucial in regulating blood pressure.

Dr. George Haber, CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, stated, "This procedure marks a major advancement in our cardiovascular care, reinforcing our shared mission to drive innovation and implement tech-enabled health solutions that are transforming the traditional healthcare landscape. By introducing advanced treatments like renal denervation, we are not only improving patient outcomes but also redefining the standards of healthcare across the region. Our commitment to innovation ensures that we continuously provide personalized, world-class care that enhances the lives of our patients and sets new standards in healthcare delivery."

The process involves inserting a thin catheter through a small incision in the groin. Guided by fluoroscopic imaging, it reaches the renal arteries. Radiofrequency energy is then applied via electrodes on the catheter tip to generate heat and disrupt nerve fibres. These arteries supply blood to kidneys and contain sympathetic nerves vital for blood pressure control.

Performed under local anaesthesia, this one-day procedure allows patients to return home shortly after treatment. Blood pressure improvements become noticeable in subsequent months, potentially reducing risks of severe complications like strokes or heart attacks. Renal denervation provides significant benefits for immediate symptom relief and long-term cardiovascular health.

Dr. Ronney Shantouf from Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi noted that hypertension often goes undiagnosed until it causes serious health issues. "In today’s fast-paced world, hypertension is more prevalent than many people realise, often remaining undiagnosed until it leads to serious health complications," he said. The procedure offers an additional option for those not responding to medical therapy.

Dr. Ashraf M. Azzoni highlighted how this technology addresses underlying causes of high blood pressure that conventional treatments may miss. "This technology allows us to address one of the underlying causes of high blood pressure that conventional treatments may struggle to manage," he explained.

Advanced Medical Care Close to Home

Renal denervation employs cutting-edge technologies performed by a team including interventional cardiologists and vascular surgeons. This ensures comprehensive care for patients with resistant hypertension at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi.

By providing such advanced solutions locally, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi continues leading in offering top-tier medical care and improving patient outcomes both within Abu Dhabi and beyond its borders.

With inputs from WAM