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A man playing golf after a prostate artery embolization procedure

Prostate Artery Embolization

A minimally invasive procedure to improve lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It's an alternative to surgery, with up to 88% of patients experiencing relief one year after the procedure. After 5-10 years, over 75% of people are still feeling better than before the procedure.1

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What is prostate artery embolization (PAE)?

What is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?

Have you noticed blood in your urine or pain when you go? You might have benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH. This condition happens when the prostate gland grows too large or becomes very hard, causing serious lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).

Other symptoms of BPH include the sudden urge to urinate, trouble emptying your bladder, dribbling or not being able to hold your urine, and challenges with sexual performance.

If you have painful lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), prostate artery embolization may be the answer. This procedure is minimally invasive and provides long-lasting relief by blocking blood flow to the prostate arteries, causing them to shrink and function normally again.

By age 60, 50% of men will develop at least one symptom of BPH. That number grows to 75% by age 70 and 90% by age 85.2

Who is a candidate for PAE?

Prostate artery embolization is a minimally invasive procedure for men with an enlarged prostate, also known as BPH. This condition causes symptoms like pain when you urinate, difficulty emptying your bladder, or issues with sexual performance. If you're dealing with any of these symptoms, prostate artery embolization may be able to help.

You may be a candidate for PAE if you:

  • Feel like you need to urinate frequently, especially at night
  • Have trouble holding your urine or feeling like you can't empty your bladder all the way
  • Need pain relief and want to avoid surgery or side effects caused by some medications

How is PAE performed?

Our interventional radiologists perform prostate artery embolization in an outpatient setting. The procedure is not painful and usually takes between one and three hours. You'll be able to go home the same day and can get back to your normal routine quickly.

Here's how PAE is done:

  • First, the doctor uses X-ray guidance to insert a catheter, or a very small tube, through your upper leg or wrist.
  • Next, the catheter is guided into the arteries connected to the prostate.
  • Then, microscopic beads and coils are released through the catheter and into the arteries to block the blood flowing to the prostate.

Blocking the blood flow to the prostate causes it to shrink, alleviating the symptoms you have been experiencing.

 

What are the benefits of PAE?

Prostate artery embolization is a minimally invasive, nonsurgical procedure that relieves uncomfortable BPH symptoms. Many men feel better in as little as two weeks after PAE.

Other benefits of PAE include:

  • Minimally invasive—no large cuts or scarring
  • Same-day procedure—recover quickly at home
  • Reduced pain and discomfort from BPH symptoms
  • May experience an improvement in sexual function
  • Could allow you to cut back on or stop prostate medications that cause unwanted sexual side effects.

Studies show that PAE shrinks the prostate by 30-40%.

A man discussing prostate artery embolization with this doctor
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Experts in prostate artery embolization

We put you and your needs at the center of your care. Our team of experts uses the latest imaging technology and minimally invasive techniques to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Experience relief and get back to your daily routine with a simple procedure and minimal recovery time. Request an appointment at one of our centers to see if prostate artery embolization is right for you.

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FAQs

Learn more about prostate artery embolization

A man surrounded by stacks of lumber happy about his prostate artery embolization procedure

Many people start to feel better within one or two weeks after the procedure. In some studies, over 80% of patients have symptom relief within one year of the procedure, and more than 75% of patients have sustained symptom relief 5-10 years after the procedure.1

If you are experiencing BPH symptoms, you are not alone. Benign prostatic hyperplasia is common for men as they age. Around 30% of men have noticeable BPH symptoms by the age of 60. By the time men reach 80, about half of them are dealing with it.2

Prostate artery embolization is very safe, especially with an experienced doctor, and has much fewer side effects than surgery, making it a desirable nonsurgical alternative. Compared to surgery, PAE has a much lower risk of incontinence or erectile dysfunction and is less invasive. Some people may experience minor bruising and soreness where the catheter was inserted. Most patients feel little pain and heal quickly. Your doctor will discuss risks and benefits with you during your appointment.

Recovery after prostate artery embolization is usually quick and easy. It’s an outpatient procedure, so you’ll go home the same day with just a small bandage. Most people have little pain and are walking right away. It's recommended to drink plenty of water and stick to light activities for the first 24-48 hours. Most people return to normal activities in a few days. Some swelling is normal, and symptoms often improve within a few weeks, with continued progress over the next few months. Your doctor will check in regularly after your procedure to see how your recovery is going.

Getting ready for prostate artery embolization is simple. You'll meet with your doctor to review your health history and do a physical exam. You should bring a list of all medications you're taking. You may get an ultrasound, CT, or MRI so your doctor can check the size of your prostate. Your doctor will explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions you have.

Our centers take most insurance plans. However, always check with your insurance provider to understand what your plan covers and any costs you may incur, such as a co-pay.

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