Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a modern, minimally invasive treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate. This nonsurgical option rivals surgery in effectiveness, but with fewer risks. Address BPH and its symptoms through PAE treatment.
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Prostate artery embolization is a nonsurgical procedure used to treat BPH. During the treatment, an interventional radiologist inserts a tiny catheter in the wrist or groin. They use this catheter to deliver microspheres to the arteries that supply blood flow to the prostate. These microspheres block or restrict blood flow to the prostate gland, causing it to shrink.
PAE is often used as a nonsurgical alternative to prostatectomy procedures, which involve surgical removal of the prostate gland. One of the most common prostatectomy procedures is transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).
PAE has several benefits, which may make it an appealing alternative to surgical procedures, medication and other BPH treatments. These benefits include:
Another advantage of PAE is its recovery process. You can often leave the treatment center within an hour after the procedure. For the first day or so, you may have mild fatigue and minor pelvic cramping, which you can manage with medication. Within several days, you can resume light daily activities, and within one or two weeks, you may notice symptom relief and prostate shrinking.
Prostate artery embolization side effects are rare. One common side effect is post-embolization syndrome, which causes a temporary flu-like feeling and mild burning as the tissue breaks down. In contrast, medications require daily administration and can cause everything from fatigue to decreased libido. Other surgical interventions are more invasive and may require hospital stays and an extended recovery period.
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Gain symptom relief without medication or major surgery using PAE. Contact our specialists to discuss this treatment option in more detail.