Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a disease of pandemic proportion, affecting approximately 425 million adults worldwide. The incidence of T2D is increasing in most countries and it is predicted that by the year 2045, 629 million adults will be diagnosed with T2D worldwide. Chronically elevated sympathetic activity has been shown to contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome and T2D. Overweight/obese individuals demonstrate elevated noradrenaline and metabolite levels relative to lean healthy individuals - this is particularly concerning since long term prospective studies have shown that noradrenaline levels predict future risk of T2D. Furthermore, dysfunctional sympathetic response to glucose loads is demonstrated amongst those with T2D compared to pre-diabetes. Since the greater splanchnic nerve is the main source of sympathetic input to the viscera, the researchers postulate that denervation of the splanchnic nerve would lead to decreased sympathetic tone, thereby improving glycemic control in patients with T2D. To the researchers' knowledge, this would be the first study to evaluate the role of splanchnic cryoablation as a potential therapeutic for T2D and insulin resistance.
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of freezing (cryoablation) of the splanchnic nerve for management of diabetes. The splanchnic nerves carry signals from the brain to help regulate the way organs function. Quieting these signals, by freezing the splanchnic nerves, may help the body regulate blood sugar. The study procedure will take about 30 minutes and the researchers hope that it will help people to control their blood sugars, lose weight, and possibly improve blood pressure.