Fort Walton Beach, FL — On July 15, HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital marked a significant milestone in cardiovascular care by performing the first renal denervation (RDN) procedure in the tri-county (Okaloosa, Walton and Santa Rosa) area. The groundbreaking, minimally invasive treatment was performed by John Dudley, MD, an interventional cardiologist and the only physician in the area currently offering the procedure.
High blood pressure continues to be one of the region's most significant health challenges. An estimated 130,000 adults across Okaloosa, Walton and Santa Rosa counties are living with high blood pressure, with nearly one in three adults affected. Renal denervation is an innovative treatment option for patients whose high blood pressure remains uncontrolled despite medication and lifestyle changes. By targeting overactive nerves surrounding the renal arteries, the procedure can help lower blood pressure and reduce the long-term risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure and kidney disease.
"High blood pressure is often called the 'silent killer' because patients may feel perfectly fine while serious damage is occurring to their heart, brain and kidneys," said Dr. Dudley. "Renal denervation gives us another tool to help patients whose blood pressure has remained difficult to control despite doing all the right things. I'm proud to bring this advanced treatment to the area so patients can receive cutting-edge cardiovascular care close to home."