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Renal denervation: A new option for patients living with resistant hypertension

February 16, 2026

Nearly half of U.S. adults live with high blood pressure, a silent threat that can lead to heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure. For millions living with resistant hypertension — where blood pressure remains high despite lifestyle changes and multiple medications — the risks are even greater.

The MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute is addressing this challenge with the launch of the FDA-approved Symplicity Renal Denervation procedure, available at MemorialCare’s three hospitals, Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, and Long Beach Medical Center.

Renal denervation is a minimally invasive therapy that reduces overactive sympathetic nerve activity around the renal arteries. These nerves transmit signals between the kidneys and brain, influencing blood pressure regulation. In resistant hypertension, this signaling becomes hyperactive, driving persistent elevation despite medication.

“This procedure offers a new pathway for patients who haven’t found success with traditional treatments,” says Hoang Nguyen, M.D., interventional cardiologist, MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute, Orange Coast Medical Center. “It’s a safe, effective option that works in harmony with existing treatment options to help patients achieve better blood pressure control. We’re proud to bring this innovative therapy to our communities.”

The procedure uses a thin, flexible catheter introduced through a small incision in the femoral artery near the groin. Under fluoroscopic guidance, the catheter is guided to the renal arteries to deliver radiofrequency energy to points along the arterial wall. This energy ablates sympathetic nerve fibers without compromising arterial integrity, reducing nerve activity and allowing the body to naturally regulate blood pressure.

“The procedure typically takes about an hour, and patients usually return home the same day,” says Dr. Nguyen. “Unlike surgery, renal denervation requires no permanent implants and involves minimal recovery.”

Clinical trials show renal denervation achieves sustained reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. A 10-mmHg decrease in office systolic pressure correlates with a 20% reduction in major cardiovascular events, 27% fewer strokes, and 28% lower incidence of heart failure. These benefits are particularly significant for high-risk populations, including older adults and individuals with diabetes or chronic kidney disease.

“Resistant hypertension is more common among certain populations, including older adults, Black patients, and individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and obesity,” says Dr. Nguyen. “These groups face higher risks of stroke and heart failure, making innovative treatments like renal denervation critical.”

MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute’s adoption of this advanced therapy reflects its commitment to providing advanced cardiovascular care throughout Orange and Los Angeles counties. The MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute team is continually enhancing its level of cardiac care across Southern California by offering patients the latest in minimally invasive cardiac care, often exceeding the capabilities of major academic hospitals, while keeping care close to home.

To learn more about renal denervation, visit memorialcare.org/heart or call 855-858-3618.

The news and editorial staffs of the Orange County Register had no role in this post’s preparation.

Orange County Register

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