SYMPLICITYTM HTN-3 - Cardiology Research Study

The Heart and Vascular Institute’s Division of Vascular Surgery is now actively enrolling patients for the SYMPLICITYTM research trial—a Medtronic-sponsored study that will provide additional information about a medical device intended to help treat high blood pressure in patients whose blood pressure is not controlled despite treatment with multiple blood pressure medications.

What is Resistant Hypertension?

Resistant hypertension is blood pressure that is resistant to treatment. Treatments for hypertension can take on a multi-pronged approach including lifestyle changes in diet and exercise and certain prescription medications.

Despite the availability of numerous safe and effective drug therapies, the percentage of subjects achieving adequate blood pressure control to recommended target values remains low. If your blood pressure remains high despite taking at least three high blood pressure medications

What to Expect as a Study Participant

If you agree to participate in the study:

  • The SYMPLICITYTM HTN-3 clinical trial will attempt to disrupt hyperactive nerves through a treatment called Renal Denervation (RDN) by applying brief radio frequency (RF) energy near the nerves with an experimental medical device.
  • A single procedure is performed by inserting a tube in the groin and placing the device in the artery leading to the kidney. Using RF, multiple treatments are performed in each artery to disrupt the hyperactive nerves. Following treatment, the device is removed.
  • Patients will receive free medical treatment and will not be taken off their regular medications.

UPMC Researchers

  • John Schindler, MD
    Dr. Schindler completed his residency in Internal Medicine at the National Naval Medical Academy in Bethesda, MD and his fellowship at UPMC. He currently sees patients in Oakland and Downtown (Heinz Building).

  • Lisa Baxendell, RN
    Lead Clinical Research Coordinator

Additional Resources

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