PIKEVILLE, KY (MAY 28, 2025) – Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) is pleased to announce the region’s first treatment with a new renal denervation (RDN) procedure, now offered for certain patients with high blood pressure. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in November 2023, the Symplicity Spyral™ renal denervation (RDN) system involves a minimally invasive procedure that targets nerves near the kidneys that can become overactive and cause high blood pressure. The procedure – also known as the Symplicity™ blood pressure procedure – is approved for use as an adjunctive treatment in patients with high blood pressure (or hypertension) when lifestyle changes and antihypertensive medications do not adequately control blood pressure.
Hypertension is the single largest contributor to death, and affects about 50% of U.S. adults. Of the U.S. adults who are aware of their hypertension, about 80% do not have it under control.
“The addition of renal innovation expands the treatment options available to patients facing challenges with blood pressure management,” said Chase Reynolds, MD, Electrophysiologist and Medical Director of Cardiology. “This innovative therapy reflects the Heart and Vascular Institute of Eastern Kentucky’s ongoing commitment to providing patients across our region with access to advanced cardiovascular care right here in Appalachia.”
The Symplicity blood pressure procedure is clinically proven to help reduce high blood pressure, which can lower serious health risks. After mild sedation, the doctor inserts a very thin tube into the artery leading to the kidney. The doctor then administers energy to calm the excessive activity of the nerves connected to the kidney. The tube is removed, leaving no implant behind.
“High blood pressure is a significant problem for patients all around the world. For people with hypertension, medication and/or lifestyle changes can help reduce blood pressure, but studies have shown that many people still don’t have control over their condition,” said Christodulos Stavens, MD. “The Symplicity blood pressure procedure can provide patients with a blood pressure reduction benefit that is ‘always on’ and doesn’t require a permanent implant – it can also help patients regain their peace of mind. We are pleased to have treated our first patient with this new technology, and we look forward to the future of hypertension care by offering innovative solutions to the people of eastern Kentucky.”
About Pikeville Medical Center
Pikeville Medical Center is a 348-licensed-bed regional referral center and Kentucky’s only level II trauma center. PMC offers over 400 services, including most major specialties and many subspecialties and features the region’s most advanced medical technology. PMC employs over 3,500 people and has over 600 credentialed healthcare providers.
PMC’s mission is to advance the health and well-being of our region through comprehensive care in a Christian environment. For more information, visit www.pmcky.org
About Medtronic
Medtronic is one of the world’s largest medical device companies, specializing in life-transforming healthcare technologies and therapies. Founded in 1949 and headquartered in Ireland (with operational headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota), the company employs over 90,000 people globally.