The influence of catheter-based renal sympathetic denervation on renal function and renal arteries

ObjectiveCurrently investigated non-pharmacological minimally invasive method for the treatment of resistant hypertension is percutaneous denervation of renal sympathetic nerve fibres by radiofrequency catheter-based ablation. We assessed its influence on renal function and renal arteries.MethodsThe first 38 patients treated with catheter-based renal denervation at our centre between September 2011 and December 2012 were included in the study. Changes in renal function and changes in renal artery morphology at 12 months after the procedure have been analyzed.ResultsMean age was 57.6 ± 11 years, the majority (63.9%) were men. Average estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGF) were 1.25 ml/s/1,73 m² before denervation and 1.30 ml/s⁻¹/1.73 m⁻² 12 months after intervention. Changes in eGF did not reach statistical significance. New haemodynamically non-significant renal artery stenosis (40%) has occurred in only one case after procedure.ConclusionIn agreement with the results of several studies, our findings suggest that renal denervation (RDN) appears to be a safe therapeutic approach.