Novoste: The brachytherapy approach to renal denervation

Abstract

While radiofrequency catheter ablation has been the predominate technique and most widely tested in both proof of concept studies as well as registry data and in randomized clinical trials, (with the exception of the recently published HTN 3 trial) potential limitations with this approach exist. Vascular brachytherapy presents an alternative approach with a long track record of safety when used for coronary, renal, and peripheral artery restenosis, and most recently has been evaluated as an alternative to radiofrequency renal denervation with promising results. The mechanism and history of radiation-induced nerve injury as well as pre-clinical and clinical studies leading to the concept and utilization of brachytherapy for renal denervation are discussed.