Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive non-surgical procedure used to relieve the urinary tract signs of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is not cancerous and is a common non-cancerous tumor in males. PAE is performed by an interventional radiologist who makes use of X-rays techniques to view the inside of the body and treat the underlying condition.
The PAE involves sending beads into the arteries that supply blood to the prostate gland. This blocks the blood supply to the prostate and it eventually shrinks.
Who Can Undergo Prostate Artery Embolization Procedure?
Everyone who has an enlarged prostate may not be suitable for undergoing a PAE procedure. Patients who have the following cannot undergo a PAE procedure:
- Bladder stones
- If your kidneys are not functioning well
- Heavy artery disease
- Some neurological issues
- Prostate cancer
You are considered as the right candidate for a PAE procedure in the following cases:
- If other therapies do not help
- If you have moderate to severe lower urinary tract signs
- If you have large prostate glands
- If you do not wish to undergo surgery
- If medications have caused side-effects
- If you are at risk of developing prostate cancer
Even if you qualify for the above, the doctor uses the following tests to know if you are suitable for a PAE procedure:
- Urine test
- Digital rectal exam
- Prostate-specific antigen test
- Ultrasound of the prostate gland
What Happens During PAE Procedure?
The PAE procedure will be conducted by an interventional radiologist. The procedure will be performed under local anesthesia. During the procedure, a thin catheter is inserted into the groin or wrist. Using X-rays, the catheter is guided towards the prostate. Once the catheter is in the correct position, tiny particles or beads are passed through the catheter towards the arteries that supply blood to the prostate. This blocks the blood flow to the prostate and the prostate eventually reduces in size. It takes around 2 to 3 hours to complete the procedure.
It takes around days, weeks, or months to shrink the prostate completely. You may experience a mild burning sensation during the procedure. It is very normal and you do not need to worry about it.
What Benefits do Prostate Artery Embolization Offer?
The are several benefits associated with prostate artery embolization such as the following:
- Reduced side effects following the procedure
- It is minimally invasive and only small incisions are made
- Do not need any hospital stay
- Faster recovery time
- Minimal downtime
- Minimal risk of sexual side effects
- Reduced risk of urinary incontinence
Can Prostate Artery Embolization Be Repeated?
The PAE procedure does not treat benign prostatic enlargements. But the PAE procedure reduces the lower urinary tract signs caused by BPH. If the PAE procedure has worked for you, then it can be repeated. However, the doctor will consider various factors before repeating the PAE procedure.
If the initial PAE procedure did not relieve your signs, then repeating the PAE procedure for the second time may not show effective results.
Meet Dr Pradyumna Reddy – An Effective and Experienced Interventional Radiologist in Hyderabad
If you have been suffering from the signs of BPH for a long time and looking for the best treatment, meet Dr Pradyumna Reddy today. He is one of the best interventional radiologists in Hyderabad with over 6 years of experience. He has helped several patients suffering from BPH with a huge success rate. He got trained in all basic & advanced radiology methods. He aims to make his services available for everyone. This is why he offers his services at an affordable cost. To know more about Dr Pradyumna Reddy, call us today.
