First Patient in Region Treated at TMH with New Technology to Help Control High Blood Pressure

Symplicity Procedure Calms Overactive Nerves That Can Elevate Blood Pressure

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (November 17, 2025) – Last week, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare’s cardiovascular team, lead by Thomas Noel, MD, successfully performed the region’s first procedure using the Symplicity Spyral Renal Denervation (RDN) System. RDN is an innovative, minimally invasive therapy for the management of uncontrolled hypertension, also known as high blood pressure.

The Symplicity procedure targets nerves in the kidneys to safely disrupt the overactive sympathetic signaling between the kidneys and the brain. TMH has five highly trained interventional cardiologists who will be offering this procedure – Thomas Noel, MD, Andres Vargas Estrada, MD, William Dixon, MD, Thaer Musa, MD, and John Katopodis, MD, of TMH Physician Partners, Services by Southern Medical Group.

“By disrupting these signals, we’re able to reduce blood pressure levels without the need for additional medication,” said Dr. Noel. “Renal denervation provides a new option for individuals struggling to manage their hypertension, especially when medications and lifestyle changes are not enough.”

The technology is a product by Medtronic and was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2023. The procedure is minimally invasive and conducted in the TMH Catheterization Lab under mild sedation. The physician inserts a very thin tube into the artery leading to the kidney then administers energy to calm the excessive activity of the nerves connected to the kidney. The tube is removed, leaving no implant behind.

“We’re proud to bring another novel therapy to patients right here in Tallahassee,” said Dr. Andres Vargas Estrada. “Our goal is to bring the most innovative treatments to our region, so patients don’t have to travel far from home to receive advanced cardiovascular care.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hypertension is the single largest contributor to death and affects about 50% of U.S. adults. Of the U.S. adults who are aware of their hypertension, about 80% do not have it under control.

Earlier this year, TMH earned the prestigious HeartCARE Center National Distinction of Excellence designation from the American College of Cardiology for the hospital’s dedication to providing world-class cardiovascular care. The recognition highlights the hospital’s continuous quality improvement and patient-centered care, solidifying its status as a state leader in heart health.

If you or someone you know is experiencing high or difficult to control blood pressure, talk to your cardiologist to see if the Symplicity blood pressure procedure at TMH is an option for you. To learn more about our advanced cardiovascular program, visit TMH.ORG/Heart.