Prostate artery embolization is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat the signs of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a condition where the prostate gland grows larger in size and it causes certain signs or symptoms. Some men need to undergo treatment for BPH to reduce the size of the prostate gland. BPH is a non-cancerous tumor and is one of the most common non-cancerous tumors in men.
BPH can lead to certain signs such as:
- Difficulty in beginning urinating
- Unable to empty the bladder completely
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Straining at the beginning of urination
- Weak or slow urine stream
All these signs can affect your quality of life. In severe cases, BPH can lead to serious issues such as bladder stones, kidney damage, urinary tract infection, etc.
What is Prostate Artery Embolization?
The PAE procedure will be performed by an interventional radiologist who uses X-rays and other imaging tests. Using X-rays and other imaging tests, the doctor can view the inside of the body and treat the condition without performing surgery. The procedure has become popular and successful in treating BPH.
During the procedure, the interventional radiologist inserts a small catheter by making a small incision on the wrist or groin. Now, the interventional radiologist directs the catheter towards the blood vessels that supply blood to the prostate. Now, tiny plastic beads or microspheres are released into the vessels that supply blood to the prostate. This eventually blocks the blood supply to the prostate. Once done, the catheter is moved to treat the other side of the prostate and the same steps will be repeated.
How Do I Know If I am Right for PAE?
The doctor determines the treatment for BPH based on your signs, age, health condition, size of the prostate gland, etc.
Medications are the first choice of treatment for BPH. But you need PAE procedure is right for you in the following cases:
- If medications do not improve the condition
- If you are not willing to undergo traditional surgery
- If your previous treatment methods have failed
- If your prostate is too large that cannot be treated using other surgeries
If you are allergic to contrast dyes and if your kidneys are not functioning well, then you cannot undergo a PAE procedure.
How Successful is Prostrate Artery Embolization?
Prostate Artery Embolization is highly successful at treating BPH with proven results. About 90% of patients who had prostate artery embolization found a reduction in the signs following the procedure.
Other types of surgeries can have an impact on your sexual life. But PAE does not cause any sexual side-effects such as erectile dysfunction.
What Benefits Does Prostate Artery Embolization Offer?
Prostate artery embolization offers the following benefits over other surgeries:
- It is less invasive
- You do not need to stay in the hospital and you can go back home on the same day of the procedure
- Faster recovery time. You can return to your daily activities within a few days to a few weeks based on your health condition
- Improves your quality of life
- Fewer chances of side effects
Confused if Prostate Artery Embolization is Right for You? Contact Dr Pradyumna Reddy Today
If you have BPH and the signs are bothering you, then you should seek immediate medical assistance. Dr Pradyumna Reddy is an experienced interventional radiologist in Hyderabad and treated several patients suffering from BPH and other conditions. He uses advanced technology to perform the surgeries and you can count on him. He provides both surgical and non-surgical treatments for BPH. To schedule your appointment with Dr Pradyumna Reddy, call us today or drop an email.
