Prostatic Arterial Embolization Can Be an Effective Treatment for Patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Prostatic arterial embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that may be a viable treatment option for men who are dealing with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is caused by an enlarged prostate and is experienced by a large percentage of men as they age. The condition causes a range of unpleasant urinary symptoms, such as a frequent and urgent need to urinate, which, though not dangerous, can have a significant negative impact on quality of life. In severe cases of BPH, the prostate may become large enough that the urethra becomes almost completely blocked, resulting in serious complications, such as kidney problems and urinary tract infections.

Surgical treatments are typically reserved for patients with severe cases of BPH and for those who are not experiencing results from medication. The most common surgical option is transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), which involves inserting a scope into the urethra to remove sections of the prostate in small pieces. Prostatic arterial embolization (PAE) is an alternative, breakthrough treatment in which a surgeon guides a catheter through an artery in the wrist to deposit small beads in the vessels supplying blood to the prostate. It is best suited for men with a significantly enlarged prostate or a prostate that is considered higher risk for TURP. Both of these surgical solutions alleviate symptoms of BPH by relieving pressure on the urethra; however, PAE has certain advantages over TURP, including:

• PAE is less invasive, so healing is typically faster
• PAE is an outpatient procedure that involves only light sedation, no urinary catheter, and requires less than six hours in the hospital

PAE reduces the risk of complications that are associated with traditional prostate surgeries, such as erectile dysfunction and infection

Complete our online form or contact our PAE program coordinator at (813) 539-5995 to begin the evaluation process to determine your candidacy for prostatic arterial embolization to treat BPH symptoms.