First renal denervation for severe hypertension completed at HCA Florida Brandon Hospital

HCA Florida Brandon Hospital has successfully completed its first renal denervation (RDN) procedure, marking a significant advancement in the treatment of patients with resistant hypertension. The procedure was performed by interventional cardiologist Vamsi Gaddipati, MD, who specializes in innovative cardiovascular therapies, and a highly skilled cardiac catheterization laboratory team.

Renal denervation is a minimally invasive treatment designed for patients whose high blood pressure remains uncontrolled despite multiple medications. The procedure targets overactive nerves surrounding the kidneys that contribute to elevated blood pressure. By calming these nerves, RDN can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of serious complications such as heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and heart failure.

“This technology represents a major step forward in hypertension care,” said Dr. Vamsi Gaddipati. “For patients who have struggled to control their blood pressure with medications alone, renal denervation offers a safe and effective option that can improve long-term health and quality of life.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly half of adults in the United States have high blood pressure. Only about one in four have it under control. Uncontrolled hypertension is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease and premature death.

During renal denervation, a thin catheter is inserted through the femoral artery and guided to the renal arteries. Energy is delivered to disrupt the overactive nerves, reducing their influence on blood pressure. The procedure is performed under mild sedation, requires no permanent implant, and most patients return home the same day.

RDN is intended for patients with resistant hypertension, meaning blood pressure remains high despite taking three or more medications, including a diuretic. Candidates should have no secondary causes of hypertension and suitable renal artery anatomy.

By lowering blood pressure, RDN can:

• Reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease
• Improve overall cardiovascular health
• Enhance quality of life for patients who have exhausted other options

For more information about renal denervation and eligibility, patients can visit cardiology services. To find a cardiologist, patients should call Consult-A-Nurse at (844) 70-NURSE (8773).