Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition where the prostate gland becomes enlarged, leading to urinary issues such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, or difficulty starting and stopping urination. One of the innovative treatments for BPH through interventional radiology is called Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE).

What is Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE)?
• PAE is a minimally invasive procedure where a specialized interventional radiologist inserts a thin catheter into an artery in the groin or wrist.
• Using advanced imaging for guidance, the catheter is directed to the arteries that supply blood to the prostate.
• Tiny particles are then injected through the catheter into these arteries, which reduces blood flow to the prostate, causing it to shrink over time and relieve symptoms.

Benefits of PAE for BPH:
• Minimally Invasive: PAE is performed through a tiny incision, resulting in less pain and quicker recovery compared to traditional prostate surgeries.
• Outpatient Procedure: Most patients can go home the same day, with many returning to normal activities within a few days.
• Fewer Side Effects: PAE has a lower risk of complications like incontinence or erectile dysfunction, which can be associated with other prostate surgeries.
• Effective Symptom Relief: Studies have shown that many men experience significant improvement in urinary symptoms and quality of life after PAE.

This procedure is especially beneficial for men who are looking for improvements in urinary function without the risks or side effects or long-term changes to other areas of the body (such as sexual function). It is also perfect for those who are not ideal candidates for surgery due to age or other health conditions. As always, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment for individual cases of BPH.

BPH – Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia