Abstract

Background: Sympathetic complex of over-activation kidneys is one of the main causes of primary hypertension (HTN). We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of sympathectomy using 5Fr mariner catheter ablation on patients with refractory hypertension. Methods: In this prospective cohort study, patients who received three or more antihypertensive medications with 160mmHg systolic blood pressure (BP) or more were randomly included and divided into 2 groups. Cases in the first group were undergone to renal denervation and the second group was treated by previous antihypertensive medications. Both groups were followed for six month by assessing BP and adverse effects. Results: One hundred and seventeenth patients (54) out of 212 screened patients were included in the first group (renal denervation) and 95 patients as the second group. The mean of BP changes in the first group was 35/15 mmHg with standard deviation of 22/11mmHg. (P<0.001) in the second group, the mean changes of BP was not statistically significant. (5/0mmHg± 22/11, P=0.79 for systolic BP and P=0.96 for diastolic BP). 92 of 117 patients in the first group had a favorable BP decrease, which was defined as a 20mmHg or more decrease in BP, in comparison with 15 of 95 patients as controls (P=0.001). There was no observed complication after denervation in the first group. Conclusion: It seems that the sympathetic renal denervation can be an effective and safe method for treatment of refractory hypertensive patients indeed of routine medications although further studies with longer follow up duration and more cases are suggested for confirming this issue.