Prostate Artery Embolization

Prostatic artery embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that treats urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate and helps improve lower urinary tract symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland and is the most common benign tumor found in men.

When is this procedure recommended? 

PAE may be recommended for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) who have urinary symptoms that aren't well controlled by medication. PAE can help with a variety of BPH issues, including:

  • Blood in the urine caused by an enlarged prostate
  • Inability to urinate
  • Weak urine stream, hesitancy, dribbling, and frequent need to urinate at night

How is the procedure performed?

An interventional radiology consult will be conducted to evaluate medical history and review prior imaging to determine if a patient is a candidate for PAE. 

During the PAE procedure, an interventional radiologist inserts a small catheter through a puncture in the groin or wrist and guides it into the arteries that supply blood to the prostate. X-ray imaging is used to help accurately position the catheter. Once the catheter is in place, microscopic plastic beads or other particles are injected into the catheter and released into the arterial branches. These particles plug up the artery and block blood flow to the prostate, which causes the gland to shrink in size over time.

What are the benefits?

  • PAE can result in shrinking of the prostate by 30% or more within weeks of the procedure, which can ease urinary symptoms and improve erectile function. 
  • PAE can relieve symptoms such as frequent urination, incomplete bladder emptying, weak urine stream, and painful urination
  • PAE is an outpatient procedure with a faster recovery time than other treatments, such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), which can require up to two months of downtime.
  • PAE also has a lower risk of complications and little to no blood loss during the procedure.

 

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