Prostate Artery Embolization
Many men over the age of 50 experience an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is an, cutting-edge treatment for BPH that is effective, minimally invasive and carries a lower risk for sexual side effects than other treatments for BPH.
PAE may be a good choice for men who have been diagnosed with BPH and don’t want to have more invasive surgical treatments and have found that prescription medications don’t help control symptoms.
How does prostate artery embolization work?
Prostate artery embolization is a procedure performed by an interventional radiologist on an outpatient basis, which means that patients can go home the same day, with no need to stay in a hospital.
During the procedure, the interventional radiologist releases microscopic beads into the arteries that feed the prostate gland in order to block blood flow causing the enlarged prostate to shrink.
The treatment requires only a tiny incision in order for the treating physician to reach the artery. Because the procedure causes only mild discomfort, general anesthesia is not used. Recovery for most people is very quick, with only a few days of reducing activities before returning to normal routines.
After PAE the enlarged prostate decreases in size and most men see a great improvement in urinary symptoms.