Renal denervation (RDN)

Need to know

• What happens icon plus

  Your consultant will apply a local anaesthetic to your groin and then make a small incision in this area (puncture site). They will then insert a catheter (a long, thin tube) into the artery in the groin supplying blood to the kidney. Next, radiofrequency pulses or ultrasound will pass through the catheter, ablating (removing) nerves in the wall of the renal artery. This causes a reduction in overactivity of the renal artery near the kidney. As a result, blood pressure can be reduced. The procedure may last up to two hours. At the end of this, your consultant may apply a small stitch to close your puncture site.

• How to prepare icon plus

  Your consultant will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. They will also advise you on things such as food and drink intake before the procedure.

• Afterwards icon plus

  You will be taken back to your hospital ward where your consultant and nurses will be able to monitor you. They may check for things such as:

  • swelling and/or bleeding around the puncture site
  • blood pressure, circulation and pulse
  • any pain or discomfort
  • the amount of oxygen in your blood

  You will need to make arrangements for someone to take you home. Your consultant may give you pain relief medication to help your recovery. They will also discuss follow-up appointments with you.