Barostim™ Placement  

Advanced Surgical Therapy for Heart Failure and Resistant Hypertension

Barostim™ therapy represents a major advancement in the treatment of chronic heart failure and resistant hypertension. At Rex Vascular Surgery, there are specially trained Vascular Surgeons that offer Barostim placement as a safe, targeted, and minimally invasive procedure that leverages the body’s own physiologic pathways to improve cardiovascular function.

How Barostim Works  

The Barostim system stimulates baroreceptors located in the carotid artery—key sensors that help regulate blood pressure and cardiac workload. By delivering controlled electrical impulses to these receptors, the device helps:

• Reduce strain on the heart  
• Improve blood pressure control  
• Enhance exercise tolerance  
• Stabilize cardiovascular function  

This therapy works alongside your current medications and does not require entry into the bloodstream.

The Surgical Procedure  

Barostim placement is performed through two small incisions:

• Carotid sinus lead placement: A specialized lead is sutured to the carotid artery, positioned precisely over the baroreceptors.  
• Implantable pulse generator (IPG): A small device is placed under the skin near the collarbone and connected to the lead.  

The system is tested and programmed during the procedure to ensure optimal stimulation. Most patients return home the same day or after a short observation period.  

Who Is a Candidate?  

Barostim therapy may be appropriate for patients who:

• Have persistent symptoms of heart failure  
• Have resistant hypertension despite multiple medications  
• Are not candidates for more invasive cardiac procedures  
• Need an option that complements existing therapies  

A thorough vascular and cardiovascular evaluation helps determine suitability.

After the Procedure  

Following placement, the device is programmed and fine-tuned over several follow-up visits with your Congestive Heart Failure Specialist. Patient's will also follow up in the Vascular Surgeons office for incision checks to ensure proper healing.

Most patients resume normal activities within days, with improvements typically developing over the following weeks.

Schedule a Consultation  

If you’re living with heart failure or resistant hypertension, Barostim therapy may offer a new path forward. Contact your Congestive Heart Failure Specialist to be evaluated for a referral to one of our Vascular Surgeons that perform the procedure.