Royal Perth Hospital is leading a world-first trial that targets nerves in the kidneys and liver to treat high blood pressure, with early results showing significant reductions in blood pressure and associated risks of heart attack and stroke.
Breakthrough procedure for 'silent killer'
The procedure uses a catheter to calm overactive nerves in the kidneys and liver, which are believed to contribute to hypertension. Professor Markus Schlaich, a hypertension specialist at the hospital, explained that these nerves are highly activated in people with high blood pressure and diabetes.
Rebekah Pythian, diagnosed with high blood pressure at just 27, was selected for the trial after eight different medications failed to control her condition. She remained awake during the two-hour keyhole procedure and was discharged the next day.
Life-changing results for patient
Pythian reported a 20-point drop in her blood pressure since the procedure. "It's a bit of a relief. Phew," she said. Professor Schlaich noted that a 10-point reduction typically corresponds to a 20% decrease in the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.
Globally, hypertension kills 11 million people annually, including more than 25,000 in Australia. An estimated one-third of the population has high blood pressure, but half are unaware. Schlaich urged everyone to get their blood pressure checked by a GP or pharmacist.
For Pythian, the results have been transformative. "All these things that I've been, like, going, I can't do that because my blood pressure. And then I can go, well, you know what? I actually can do those now," she said.
