Baroreflex activation therapy in the treatment of resistant hypertension
Gordin, D.; Vikatmaa, P.; Vikatmaa, L.; Groop, P.-H.; Albäck, A.; Tikkanen, I.
Duodecim; Laaketieteellinen Aikakauskirja 132(20): 1874-1881
2016
ISSN/ISBN: 0012-7183 PMID: 29190040 Document Number: 690384
Baroreceptors are sensory nerve endings in the carotid sinuses and the aortic arch. Notably, a dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system (sympathetic hyperactivity) has been shown to be part of the pathophysiology of chronic hypertension. Baroreflex activation therapy is an invasive treatment modality to decrease blood pressure by stimulating baroreceptors in the wall of the carotid sinus. Preliminary results of baroreflex activation therapy in resistant hypertension and systolic heart failure have been promising. If its effect can be proven in controlled studies, it may serve as an important new tool in the treatment of patients with resistant hypertension at a high risk of cardiovascular complications.