Symplicity SpryralTM Procedure
VHC Health proudly stands as the first hospital in the Washington, DC metro area to offer the Simplicity SpyralTM (RDN) procedure. This transformative technology to treat hypertension was approved in November 2023 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Hypertension is the leading preventable cause of heart attack, stroke, and death in the United States. Only one in four of the 110 million Americans with hypertension have their condition under control, despite medications and lifestyle changes.
The Symplicity SpyralTM RDN Procedure
The Symplicity SpyralTM RDN procedure is a minimally invasive technique targeting the nerves surrounding the arteries to the kidneys, which are crucial in determining blood pressure.
This groundbreaking procedure involves:
- Small Tube Insertion: A small tube is inserted into the femoral artery.
- Catheter Guidance: A catheter is directed to each renal artery, emitting radiofrequency energy to disable renal nerves.
- No Permanent Implants: The procedure is designed to leave no permanent implants in the body, ensuring patient safety and comfort.
An Additive Treatment
The Symplicity SpyralTM procedure is not meant to replace established therapies for blood pressure. It is an adjunctive treatment when medications and lifestyle changes are ineffective or patients are unable to take medications.
Clinical Outcomes
After 15 years of rigorous study, the Symplicity SpyralTM procedure shows remarkable outcomes:
Blood Pressure Reduction: Patients typically achieve an average 10-to 25-point drop in systolic blood pressure. Even a modest reduction in systolic blood pressure can have positive effects on cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart-related issues.
Long-Term Benefits: Studies following patients for more than three years show a continued decrease in blood pressure, highlighting the enduring impact of the procedure.
Associated Risk Reduction: A mere 10-point drop in blood pressure is associated with a 20% reduction in heart attack, stroke and death.
Preventive Hypertension Tips
Adopting a healthy lifestyle can play a crucial role in preventing and managing high blood pressure. Here are some lifestyle tips to help avoid high blood pressure:
- Maintain a Healthy Diet:
- Eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
- Reduce Sodium Intake:
- Limit the amount of salt in your diet by avoiding processed foods.
- Watch Your Weight:
- Losing even a small amount of weight can have a positive impact on blood pressure.
- Stay Physically Active:
- Aim for at least 90 - 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, swimming or cycling.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption:
- If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. This typically means up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.
- Quit Smoking:
- Smoking can raise blood pressure and damage your blood vessels. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your overall health.
- Check and Monitor Blood Pressure:
- Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your blood pressure or monitor your blood pressure at home and keep track of the readings.
Learn More and Schedule a Consultation
Look to VHC Health for comprehensive cardiovascular care from experts who give you personalized care. From prevention to diagnosis and treatment, count on our team to help you live a heart-healthy life.
