LECOM Health Cardiologist to Perform First in Class Groundbreaking FDA-Approved Therapy for Treatment of Resistant Hypertension

Updated on May 4, 2024

LECOM Health recently announced the treatment of the first five patients with a new renal denervation (RDN) procedure, now offered for certain patients with high blood pressure. Recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Symplicity Spyral™ renal denervation (RDN) system – involves a minimally invasive procedure that targets nerves near the kidneys that can become overactive and cause high blood pressure. Dr. Matthew Becker,Chairman of the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine and the Director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratories for LECOM Health, will perform the initial procedures on Thursday, April 25th. 

The procedure – also known as the Symplicity™ blood pressure procedure – is approved for use as an adjunctive treatment in patients with high blood pressure (or hypertension) when lifestyle changes and antihypertensive medications do not adequately control blood pressure.  

“Half of Americans are affected by high blood pressure and it is a major contributor to heart attacks and strokes. For people with hypertension, medication and/or lifestyle changes can help reduce blood pressure, but studies have shown that many people still don’t have control over their condition,” said Dr. Becker. “The Symplicity blood pressure procedure – which is now FDA-approved – can provide patients with a blood pressure reduction benefit that is ‘always on’ and doesn’t require a permanent implant – it can also help patients regain their peace of mind. We are pleased to be treating our first five patients with this new technology, and we look forward to the future of hypertension care by offering innovative solutions to the people of the Erie region.”

Hypertension is the single largest contributor to death,1 and affects about 50% of U.S. adults.2 Of the U.S. adults who are aware of their hypertension, about 80% do not have it under control.3

The Symplicity blood pressure procedure is clinically proven to help reduce high blood pressure,4-6 which can lower serious health risks.7 After mild sedation, the doctor inserts a very thin tube into the artery leading to the kidney. The doctor then administers energy to calm the excessive activity of the nerves connected to the kidney. The tube is removed, leaving no implant behind.

If you or someone you know is experiencing high or difficult-to-control blood pressure, talk to your doctor to see if the Symplicity blood pressure procedure is a possible treatment option: visit this link to learn more.

About LECOM Health

LECOM Health is a highly innovative, multi-faceted healthcare and education system. As the nation’s only osteopathic academic health center, LECOM Health includes Millcreek Community Hospital, Corry Memorial Hospital, Medical Associates of Erie, LECOM Senior Living Center, LECOM Senior Living Communities, John M. & Silvia Ferretti LECOM Medical Fitness and Wellness Center, LECOM Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, LECOM at Village Square, LECOM at Elmwood Gardens, LECOM Center for Health and Aging, the Visiting Nurse Association of Erie County, the Achievement Center of LECOM Health, and Corry Counseling Services of LECOM Health. At the core of LECOM Health is the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM), the largest and one of the most affordable medical schools in the country. Since 1993, LECOM has trained more than 16,000 healthcare professionals through its cutting-edge, student-centered College of Osteopathic Medicine, School of Pharmacy, School of Dental Medicine, School of Podiatric Medicine, School of Health Services Administration and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at campuses in Erie and Greensburg, Pa., Bradenton, Fla., and Elmira, N.Y.

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