Novel baroreflex activation therapy in resistant hypertension results of a European multi-center feasibility study
Authors
- I.J. Scheffers
- A.A. Kroon
- J. Schmidli
- J. Jordan
- J.J. Tordoir
- M.G. Mohaupt
- F.C. Luft
- H. Haller
- J. Menne
- S. Engeli
- J. Ceral
- S. Eckert
- A. Erglis
- K. Narkiewicz
- T. Philipp
- P.W. de Leeuw
Journal
- Journal of the American College of Cardiology
Citation
- J Am Coll Cardiol 56 (15): 1254-1258
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: This study assessed the safety and efficacy of a novel implantable device therapy in resistant hypertension patients. BACKGROUND: Despite the availability of potent antihypertensive drugs, a substantial proportion of patients remain hypertensive. A new implantable device (Rheos system, CVRx, Inc., Minneapolis, Minnesota) that activates the carotid baroreflex may help these patients. METHODS: Forty-five subjects with systolic blood pressure ≥160 mm Hg or diastolic ≥90 mm Hg despite at least 3 antihypertensive drugs were enrolled in a prospective, nonrandomized feasibility study to assess whether Rheos therapy could safely lower blood pressure. Subjects were followed up for as long as 2 years. An external programmer was used to optimize and individualize efficacy. RESULTS: Baseline mean blood pressure was 179/105 mm Hg and heart rate was 80 beats/min, with a median of 5 antihypertensive drugs. After 3 months of device therapy, mean blood pressure was reduced by 21/12 mm Hg. This result was sustained in 17 subjects who completed 2 years of follow-up, with a mean reduction of 33/22 mm Hg. The device exhibited a favorable safety profile. CONCLUSIONS: The Rheos device sustainably reduces blood pressure in resistant hypertensive subjects with multiple comorbidities receiving numerous medications. This unique therapy offers a safe individualized treatment option for these high-risk subjects. This novel approach holds promise for patients with resistant hypertension and is currently under evaluation in a prospective, placebo-controlled clinical trial.