Method and apparatus for renal neuromodulation

A method for renal neuromodulation, said method comprising the steps of:

• providing an expandable support member having a cuff-like configuration and comprising a main body portion, the main body portion including a lumen defined by an inner surface, the lumen extending between first and second end portions of the expandable support member, the inner surface being configured to engage a wall of a blood vessel comprising a portion of a renal vasculature, at least one electrode connected with the main body portion arranged to selectively deliver electric current to a desired location, and an insulative material directly attached to at least a portion of the main body portion, the insulative material extending the entire longitudinal length between the first and second end portions of the expandable support member;
• implanting the main body portion extravascularly so that the main body portion is in direct contact with a portion of the renal vasculature and at least one electrode is positioned substantially adjacent a desired location where modulation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is effective to alter renal function;
• and
• delivering electric current to the at least one electrode to effect a change in the SNS.