Institut Jantung Negara (IJN) has achieved a significant breakthrough in cardiovascular care after successfully performing Southeast Asia’s first transradial renal denervation (RDN) procedure using the advanced Iberis® RDN System. The milestone highlights IJN’s continued commitment to introducing innovative, evidence-based treatments that improve patient care and strengthen Malaysia’s position in cardiovascular healthcare advancement.

The landmark procedure was performed by Dato’ Sri Dr. Azhari Rosman, Senior Consultant Cardiologist at IJN, together with Dr. Thum Chan Ho, Consultant Cardiologist at IJN. The treatment was carried out on a 35-year-old patient suffering from resistant hypertension, a condition where blood pressure remains uncontrolled despite receiving optimal medication therapy. The successful procedure provides an additional treatment option for carefully selected patients facing challenges in managing high blood pressure.

Renal denervation is a minimally invasive procedure designed to target overactive nerves surrounding the renal arteries, which contribute to blood pressure regulation. By reducing excessive sympathetic nerve signals to the kidneys, the treatment may help lower blood pressure among patients with resistant hypertension. The Iberis® RDN System utilises radiofrequency energy through multiple electrodes to deliver controlled therapy to the renal sympathetic nerves.

A key feature of the procedure is its transradial approach, which allows access through the radial artery in the wrist instead of the traditional femoral artery route through the groin. This alternative technique may offer benefits such as improved patient comfort, earlier mobilisation and reduced risks associated with vascular access complications for suitable patients. The system also includes advanced safety features such as independent electrode control, continuous temperature and impedance monitoring, as well as automated safety mechanisms to support procedural accuracy.

According to Dato’ Sri Dr. Azhari Rosman, the achievement represents an important advancement in renal denervation therapy for patients with resistant hypertension. He highlighted that the condition requires careful assessment and personalised treatment strategies, with renal denervation serving as an additional option for patients who continue to experience uncontrolled blood pressure despite medication.

Prof. Datuk Seri Dr. Mohamed Ezani Md Taib, Group Chief Executive Officer of IJN, said the milestone reflects the institution’s dedication to advancing specialised cardiovascular care through innovation and clinical excellence. He emphasised that hypertension remains a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and IJN continues to explore advanced treatment solutions that can support patients requiring additional therapeutic approaches beyond conventional medication.

Datuk Dr. Shaiful Azmi Yahaya, Chief Clinical Officer of IJN, added that the transradial RDN procedure represents progress in interventional cardiology by improving not only the technology used but also the overall patient experience. He noted that the achievement was made possible through collaboration between IJN’s multidisciplinary medical teams and industry partner Biosensors International Group.

As Malaysia’s national heart centre, IJN continues to expand its capabilities in managing complex cardiovascular conditions through innovation, research and strategic partnerships. The successful completion of Southeast Asia’s first transradial renal denervation procedure using the Iberis® RDN System reinforces IJN’s role as a regional leader in delivering advanced cardiovascular treatments and improving outcomes for patients across Malaysia and beyond.