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VCS Cardiologist Dr. Ashwani Kumar Leads New Renal Denervation Program for High Blood Pressure
Innovative, minimally invasive procedure expands treatment options for patients with difficult-to-control high blood pressure in Greater Richmond.
Virginia Cardiovascular Specialists (VCS) is proud to recognize Dr. Ashwani Kumar for his leadership in launching a new renal denervation program at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital, expanding treatment options for patients with difficult-to-control high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.
On October 7, Dr. Kumar performed the hospital’s first two renal denervation procedures using the Medtronic Symplicity Spyral™ system. This milestone introduces an additional treatment option at the hospital for patients whose blood pressure remains uncontrolled despite medication and lifestyle changes.
What Is Renal Denervation?
Renal denervation is a minimally invasive procedure designed to help lower blood pressure by targeting overactive nerves surrounding the arteries leading to the kidneys. These nerves can contribute to elevated blood pressure.
During the procedure, a physician inserts a thin catheter into an artery and delivers radiofrequency energy to reduce the activity of these nerves. The catheter is then removed, leaving no permanent implant behind.
Renal denervation is an FDA-approved treatment option that may help lower blood pressure when medications and lifestyle changes alone have not provided adequate control.
Who May Benefit from Renal Denervation?
For some patients, managing high blood pressure remains challenging despite medication and healthy lifestyle changes.
Renal denervation may be an option for appropriately selected patients with uncontrolled hypertension. A cardiovascular evaluation can help determine whether this treatment may be appropriate based on an individual’s medical history, blood pressure management, and overall cardiovascular health.
Learn more about hypertension and high blood pressure and the treatment options available through VCS.
Advancing Cardiovascular Care Through Collaboration
As the physician leading the renal denervation program at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital, Dr. Kumar is helping expand access to innovative treatment options for patients throughout the Greater Richmond region.
The program reflects the continued collaboration between VCS and Henrico Doctors’ Hospital, combining VCS’s expertise in cardiovascular evaluation, treatment planning, and ongoing patient care with the hospital’s advanced procedural capabilities and dedicated cardiac catheterization lab team.
For patients struggling to control their high blood pressure, this new program offers another potential path toward better cardiovascular health.
Concerned About Your Blood Pressure?
Talk with a VCS cardiologist about your treatment options and whether renal denervation may be right for you.
Locations across Richmond and Central Virginia
Published October 21, 2026