Hypertension, a common condition affecting nearly half of U.S. adults, can lead to serious health problems like heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and dementia. A new treatment, called renal denervation, offers hope for people whose high blood pressure cannot be controlled with medication. Approved by the FDA in late 2023, this minimally invasive procedure targets overactive renal nerves, which play a key role in regulating blood pressure. Studies show it can lower systolic blood pressure by 8 to 10 points on average, with some patients experiencing even better results. However, it is not suitable for everyone, including those with kidney disease or narrowed arteries.

During the procedure, a catheter is threaded to the kidneys, where energy, such as ultrasound or radiofrequency, disables specific nerve pathways. It takes about an hour and is currently available at a few hospitals, like Massachusetts General Brigham. Experts are refining guidelines and addressing insurance coverage, as the procedure is expensive. While promising, it does not work for everyone, and its long-term effects are still being studied. Combined with medication and lifestyle changes, renal denervation may help those with treatment-resistant hypertension.