CIS is First in Acadiana to Use the Paradise® Ultrasound Renal Denervation System for Treatment of High Blood Pressure

OPELOUSAS, LA – Dr. Kalyan Veerina, interventional cardiologist at Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS), is the first in Acadiana and second in Louisiana to use the Paradise® Ultrasound Renal Denervation (RDN) System, a new first-of-its-kind treatment option for patients with high blood pressure. The procedure took place at Opelousas General Health System (OGHS).

Manufactured by Recor Medical, the Paradise® Ultrasound RDN System uses ultrasound energy to ablate the renal nerves and lower blood pressure. The procedure is minimally-invasive, and may be performed in an outpatient setting, reducing time and discomfort, and allowing most patients to return home the same day. This new system also features a unique HydroCooling™ technology, which circulates sterile water within the balloon catheter to help cool and protect the lining of the renal artery during energy delivery.  

Traditional treatment options for high blood pressure include lifestyle changes and medications. Medications may cause side effects and often lead to poor adherence, with patients missing doses or not taking medications at all. Hypertensive patients that remain “uncontrolled,” or outside of the normal blood pressure range, are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease — including heart attack and heart failure, stroke, kidney disease, and cognitive issues. For many with high blood pressure, the nerves leading to and from the kidneys become overactive, contributing to high blood pressure. Clinical research has shown that ultrasound denervation, or the interruption of the signals along these nerves, can effectively reduce blood pressure.

“This new therapy is a revolutionary breakthrough for patients with resistant or uncontrolled high blood pressure,” said Dr. Veerina. “CIS and Opelousas General are proud to bring this innovative solution to improve the quality of life for patients in our community.”