Introduction
Barostim therapy is a new treatment for hypertension that uses an implantable device to stimulate the baroreceptors, which are sensors in the carotid arteries that help regulate blood pressure. The device is called the Barostim NEO System, and it was approved by the FDA in 2019.
Barostim therapy is used to treat patients with resistant hypertension, which means that their blood pressure is not controlled by medication. The therapy has been shown to be effective in lowering blood pressure and improving quality of life in patients with resistant hypertension.
How does Barostim therapy work?
The Barostim NEO System consists of a small generator that is implanted under the skin in the chest. The generator is connected to a lead that is threaded into the carotid artery. The lead delivers electrical pulses to the baroreceptors, which signals the body to lower blood pressure.
The Barostim NEO System is programmed to deliver a specific number of pulses per minute. The doctor can adjust the number of pulses as needed to achieve the desired blood pressure goal.
Who is eligible for Barostim therapy?
Barostim therapy is not for everyone. Patients who are eligible for the therapy must have resistant hypertension and meet certain other criteria, such as:
- They must be at least 18 years old.
- They must have tried at least three different types of blood pressure medication and their blood pressure is still not controlled.
- They must not have any other conditions that would make them ineligible for the therapy, such as uncontrolled heart failure or a history of stroke.
Conclusion
Barostim therapy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses electrical pulses to stimulate the baroreceptors in the neck. This helps to lower blood pressure by reducing the heart’s workload.
