'Paper clip' implant will keep tabs on high blood pressure
DOCTORS have hailed a revolutionary “paper clip” implant that can cut high blood pressure in patients not responding to drugs.
Researchers found that a 'paper clip' implant can lower blood pressure throughout the whole body
The wire device is placed between blood vessels in the upper thigh to create an extra “channel” for blood to flow.
And after being tested on people suffering from the debilitating condition, researchers found the tiny device can lower blood pressure throughout the whole body.
Doctor: Many people have high blood pressure and are unaware
Some people have even reported stopping their medication because they have responded so well.
The coupler effectively targets the mechanical aspects of how blood circulation works
Experts welcomed the development as a promising route to treating high blood pressure.
Leading vascular surgeon John Scurr said the Rox Coupler device – which is only available at selected hospitals – was in its trial stages, but he was encouraged.
He said: “These are promising early-stage results. However there are genuine concerns and it is important that patients realise this is still very much a trial.”
Doctors hailed the tiny device as it can help patients who are not responding to drugs
Melvin Lobo, lead researcher from Queen Mary University of London, said: “The coupler effectively targets the mechanical aspects of how blood circulation works, so it’s a totally new approach.”
Millions of Britons suffer high blood pressure, which raises the risk of heart attack, stroke and dementia.