An Implantable Device for Resistant Hypertension Performs Well in a Randomized Trial

Baroreflex activation therapy safely lowered systolic blood pressure in patients who had hypertension despite taking an average of five antihypertensive drugs.

Patients lack treatment options when hypertension persists despite optimal drug therapy. At the American College of Cardiology Scientific Sessions in March 2011, investigators presented promising findings from the manufacturer-sponsored, double-blind Rheos Pivotal Trial of a surgically implantable baroreflex activation therapy (BAT) device. These results have now been published.

One month after implantation, 265 device recipients were randomized 2:1 to immediate activation (group A) or delayed activation 6 months later (group B), with blinding maintained during a total follow-up of 12 months. All patients had blood pressures (BPs) ≥160/80 mm Hg despite adherence to maximum tolerated doses of at least three antihypertensive agents, including …

Reviewing Author

JoAnne M. Foody, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory boardAegerion; Amarin; Bristol-Myers Squibb; Janssen; Merck; Pfizer; Sanofi-Aventis; Boehringer Ingelheim

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Cardiology, Cardiosmart (Co-chair)

JoAnne M. Foody, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory boardAegerion; Amarin; Bristol-Myers Squibb; Janssen; Merck; Pfizer; Sanofi-Aventis; Boehringer Ingelheim

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Cardiology, Cardiosmart (Co-chair)

An Implantable Device for Resistant Hypertension Performs Well in a Randomized Trial

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Reviewing Author