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Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is an enlargement of the prostate gland. The likelihood of developing an enlarged prostate increases with age. More than half of all men in their 60s and as many as 90% aged 70-89 years have some symptoms of BPH.

As the prostate gets bigger, it may constrictor partly block the urethra, causing lower
urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) such as:
• Urinary frequency
• Dribbling at the end of urinating Inability to urinate
• Incomplete emptying of bladder
• Incontinence
• Difficulty starting urination
• Straining to urinate or weak urine stream
 

For some patients, these symptoms interfere with sleep, further reducing their quality of life.

Prostate Artery Embolization

Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that offers a non-surgical treatment option for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as an enlarged prostate. This innovative technique, performed by our experienced medical team, involves blocking the blood supply to the prostate, leading to a reduction in its size and alleviation of symptoms. During PAE, tiny particles are delivered through a catheter into the arteries supplying the prostate, causing them to narrow and restrict blood flow. By doing so, PAE can effectively relieve urinary symptoms associated with BPH, such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, and urinary urgency. This procedure offers several advantages over traditional surgical interventions, including a shorter recovery time, lower risk of complications, and preservation of sexual function. At our medical practice, we specialize in performing PAE and provide personalized care to determine if this procedure is suitable for you. Schedule a consultation with our experts to explore your treatment options and regain your quality of life.

Am I a Candidate for PAE?

Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that provides a non-surgical option for men suffering from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or an enlarged prostate. If you are experiencing bothersome urinary symptoms due to BPH and considering PAE as a potential treatment, several factors determine whether you are a suitable candidate. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as an interventional radiologist or urologist, to determine your eligibility for this procedure. However, here are some general considerations:

  1. Diagnosis: First and foremost, you need a confirmed diagnosis of BPH. This typically involves a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, and possibly additional tests such as a digital rectal exam or prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test.

  2. Symptom Severity: PAE is usually recommended for men with moderate to severe urinary symptoms caused by BPH. These symptoms may include frequent urination, weak urine flow, urinary urgency, difficulty starting or stopping urination, and incomplete bladder emptying.

  3. Desire for Non-Surgical Treatment: PAE offers a non-surgical alternative to traditional surgical interventions for BPH. If you prefer a minimally invasive approach that avoids major surgery, PAE may be a suitable option for you.

  4. Overall Health: Your general health and medical history will be assessed to ensure you are a good candidate for PAE. Factors such as cardiovascular health, any existing prostate or urinary conditions, and any contraindications for the procedure will be considered.

  5. Size and Shape of the Prostate: The size and shape of your prostate gland will also play a role in determining your candidacy for PAE. While PAE can be effective for various prostate sizes, it is often more beneficial for men with moderate to large prostates.

  6. Personalized Consultation: It is essential to have a personalized consultation with a healthcare professional specializing in PAE. They will evaluate your specific case, discuss the potential benefits and risks of the procedure, and help determine the best treatment approach tailored to your needs.

Remember, this information serves as a general guide, and it is crucial to consult with a medical professional to evaluate your candidacy for PAE based on your unique medical history, symptoms, and preferences. Our team of experts at [Your Medical Practice] can provide the necessary expertise to assess your eligibility for PAE and guide you through the treatment process. Contact us to schedule a consultation and explore your options for regaining control of your urinary health.

During the PAE Procedure

During PAE, you are given a local anesthetic and mild sedation medication, but remain awake. The PAE procedure begins with a tiny incision in your upper thigh or wrist. The doctor uses this incision to insert a catheter into your arteries and guide it near your prostate. Once the catheter is in position, an arteriogram (an X-ray in which dye is injected into the blood vessels) is done to map the blood vessels feeding the prostate. Next, Microspheres, tiny round particles each about the size of a grain of sand, are injected through the catheter and into the blood vessels that feed your prostate, reducing its blood supply. The doctor then repositions the catheter in order to treat the other side of your prostate, the same way as previously described.

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