Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) Procedure

The prostate artery embolization procedure is an outpatient approach that relieves long-term symptoms from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate. We'll take a closer look at what is prostate artery embolization, and what you can expect during the procedure.

Most men aged 50 and older will develop an enlarged prostate. An estimated 50% of males will experience prostate growth by their early 50s, with the chances increasing with every additional decade of life.

An enlarged prostate not caused by an infection or cancer is called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH causes highly disruptive and uncomfortable symptoms that affect urinary continence and sexual function.

BPH does not resolve on its own. While some patients can experience symptom relief with medications and lifestyle modifications, significant or bothersome symptoms are only diminished through treatment. Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is among the most effective approaches for addressing symptomatic BPH.

What is a PAE procedure?

A PAE procedure involves introducing embolic agents into the arteries that deliver the prostate's blood supply. By restricting blood from the prostate, prostate tissues will effectively die off, reducing the size of the gland and relieving symptoms over time.

During a PAE procedure, a small, narrow catheter is introduced into a minor incision through the groin. The catheter finds targeted arteries that direct blood to the prostate and injects an agent containing microscopic beads. The beads effectively block blood flow to the prostate, starving the gland and causing it to shrink significantly.

PAE is an outpatient procedure that generally takes roughly two hours to perform. Patients can return home on the day of the treatment. Recovery time is minimal, with patients able to return to most normal activities in a week or sooner.

Candidates for PAE

Patients who do not wish to endure invasive surgeries may find PAE a viable treatment option. Most men with symptomatic BPH, healthy kidney function, and no allergies to contrast dyes are candidates for PAE.

Patients might be screened for arterial occlusions that could complicate PAE. The screening might involve undergoing a computed tomography (CT) angiogram or a magnetic resonance angiogram.

Why is PAE an effective treatment?

Prostate artery embolization has emerged as a popular treatment option for BPH due to its high efficacy and minimal side effects.

One advantage of PAE compared to other treatments is its minimally invasive nature. It does not require general anesthesia or incisions, making it a more comfortable option for many patients. Additionally, PAE offers shorter recovery times, allowing patients to return to normal activities sooner.

PAE has significantly improved symptoms and quality of life in patients with BPH. Studies have shown significant reductions in prostate volume, improved urinary flow rate, and reduced need for medications after surgery. Furthermore, PAE has been shown to have a low complication rate, making it a reliable and effective treatment option.

Georgia Prostate Institute: Effective, Compassionate Prostate Care

Georgia Prostate Institute is proud to provide the services of expert interventional radiologists who specialize in prostate artery embolization. This highly effective procedure is an excellent treatment option for patients struggling with symptomatic BPH.

If you are exhibiting symptoms of an enlarged prostate, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our expert interventional radiologists at Georgia Prostate Institute. They will evaluate your condition and determine if prostate artery embolization is a suitable treatment option for you.