OhioHealth is collaborating with Medtronic to introduce the Symplicity procedure, a minimally invasive treatment for patients with hypertension. This procedure targets excessively active nerves near the kidneys through renal denervation and is designed to complement existing medications and lifestyle changes.
The first Symplicity procedure at OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital was performed on February 28, 2025. "OhioHealth Heart and Vascular physicians are at the forefront of cardiovascular innovation," said Dr. Subha Raman, vice president of heart and vascular at OhioHealth. The collaboration aims to provide patients access to the latest advancements in hypertension care.
Dr. Joseph Campbell, an OhioHealth cardiologist, highlighted the significant burden of cardiovascular complications related to hypertension. He noted that patients with resistant hypertension or multiple medication intolerances had limited options before this procedure became available.
The Symplicity system has evolved with an improved understanding of underlying pathophysiology, leading to its FDA approval. Dr. Campbell explained that both device design and procedural approach have contributed to significant findings in clinical data.
In the United States, high blood pressure is defined by guidelines from the American Heart Association as any value greater than 130/80 mmHg. "Hypertension is one of the leading risk factors for heart disease and stroke," said Dr. Justin Morrison, an interventional cardiologist at OhioHealth.
Dr. Morrison emphasized that hypertension affects an estimated 40-50% of U.S. adults and often presents no symptoms until serious events occur, such as heart attacks or strokes. Regular blood pressure checks are crucial for early detection and management.
OhioHealth has developed a new Hypertension Clinic offering personalized approaches to managing high blood pressure. "If you're concerned about your blood pressure," Dr. Morrison advised, "talk to your doctor about whether a referral to our clinic may be right for you."