Medtronic reports positive results from clinical trial of RDN system

Data from Medtronic’s clinical trial showed that renal denervation (RDN) using the Symplicity system has reduced subclinical atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with hypertensive heart disease. AF occurrence was monitored by Medtronic implantable diagnostic technology and results from the study showed that subclinical AF developed at a lower rate in the group of patients who received RDN (19%) than those receiving the sham procedure (47%). The study randomised 80 patients who were subjected to either renal denervation procedure with the Symplicity renal denervation system or a sham procedure.
Marshall J Heradien, principal investigator of the study, said: “In this high-risk cohort of patients with hypertensive heart disease, who are at risk for atrial fibrillation and cardiovascular death, this study suggests there may be an important benefit provided by renal denervation. Consistent with previous studies, these data show that the RDN procedure offers a lasting, positive effect that may translate into improved clinical outcomes.”
Dave Moeller, Medtronic cardiac and vascular group VP and general manager of coronary and renal denervation business, said: “As demonstrated by these studies presented at EuroPCR, new data continue to demonstrate that renal denervation is a safe and useful complement to manage uncontrolled hypertension, with patients experiencing meaningful blood pressure reductions out to several years and in the setting of daily clinical practice. Results from these studies will add to the robust growing body of evidence supporting renal denervation and may be important for consideration with patients suffering from uncontrolled hypertension.”