DALTON, Ga. (August 13, 2025) – Hamilton Medical Center (HMC) is now providing a new renal denervation (RDN) procedure for certain patients with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. HMC was the first in the Chattanooga area and the only hospital between Atlanta and Knoxville to offer this procedure. 

Dr. Sonny Achtchi, DO, a board-certified interventional and endovascular cardiologist, recently treated the first patient at HMC with the new procedure, which is a minimally invasive procedure aimed at helping patients with uncontrolled blood pressure, especially those who are on multiple medications without success. 

The procedure targets overactive nerves in the kidneys that contribute to high blood pressure. Symplicity has been in development and clinical trials for 15-plus years, with thousands of patients treated globally. Patients typically remain on current medications at first, with follow-up to assess whether dosages can be reduced.

High blood pressure is a prominent health concern for over 1 billion people worldwide, according to the World Health Organization’s Hypertension fact sheet.  

By reducing high blood pressure, Symplicity can lower serious health risks like cardiovascular disease. 

After mild sedation, the doctor inserts a very thin tube into the artery leading to the kidney. The doctor then administers energy to calm the excessive activity of the nerves connected to the kidney. The tube is removed, leaving no implant behind. 

Symplicity offers a quick recovery time with most patients getting up and moving within a few hours and generally going home the same day.

Photo: Hamilton Medical Center (HMC) is now providing a new renal denervation (RDN) procedure for certain patients with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Cardiac surgery associates are picture with Sonny Achtchi, DO (holding banner), who performed the first procedure at HMC.

About Vitruvian Health

Vitruvian Health, formerly Hamilton Health Care System, is a not-for-profit, fully integrated health system serving the Northwest Georgia and Southeast Tennessee regions. Vitruvian includes Hamilton Medical Center in Dalton, Ga., and Bradley Medical Center in Cleveland, Tenn., affiliated physician practices, walk-in care centers, retirement and skilled nursing centers, a diagnostic center, a cancer institute, an institute for children with developmental delays, and more. Known for its advanced care and personalized service, Vitruvian Health offers innovative treatment options in state-of-the-art facilities while maintaining a compassionate, friendly and tranquil healing environment.

The Vitruvian name draws from the organization’s recognizable da Vinci-inspired Vitruvian Man icon, which has been a prominent part of Hamilton’s logo since 1976. Da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man represents harmony, balance, and the interconnectedness of all aspects of health, perfectly aligning with Hamilton’s integrated system of care.

About Hamilton Medical Center

The flagship affiliate for Vitruvian Health’s Northwest Georgia region, Hamilton Medical Center (HMC) is a 255-bed regional acute-care hospital that offers major medical, surgical and diagnostic services, including accredited stroke and chest pain centers. Advanced technology and wellness are two significant areas of focus for HMC. Services include the freestanding Hamilton Ambulatory Surgery Center, Hamilton Diagnostics Center, and Bradley Wellness Center, as well as a Level II trauma center, Peeples Cancer Institute, Heart & Vascular program (including open heart surgery), Hamilton Spine Health and Sport, Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and more.