PROVIDENCE – Rhode Island Hospital is taking part in a multisite clinical trial to measure the efficacy of a catheter-based treatment for uncontrolled hypertension. The principal investigator is Dr. Timothy P. Murphy, interventional radiologist and director of the Vascular Disease Research Center.

His research team is currently enrolling participants with high blood pressure for the study.

Hyperactivation of the sympathetic nervous system is a major contributor to hypertension. In particular, neurological activity to and from the kidney may play a key role in hypertension. This study will measure the effectiveness of a catheter implanted in the renal artery using a standard endovascular technique. The implanted catheter delivers low-power radiofrequency energy through the renal arteries, quieting the renal nerves, which can consequently reduce blood pressure.

This is the third clinical study of the Medtronic Symplicity Renal Denervation System. Results of both the first and second phases of the study showed a significant reduction in blood pressure.

“This study examines a potential breakthrough in the treatment of hypertension,” Murphy said. “If this study confirms earlier observations, then patients with hypertension will have a new, minimally invasive alternative to medicine-based treatments.” •