713.489.9075 HOUSTON
469.305.1642 DALLAS
713.489.9075 HOUSTON
469.305.1642 DALLAS
Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is an extremely successful minimally invasive treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known to shrink enlarged prostate.
The overgrowth of prostate tissue cells without infection or malignancy is called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The enlarged prostate gland compresses and tightens the urethra, resulting in the following urinary symptoms
BPH is prevalent among men aged 50 and older. BPH symptoms are often bothersome and unpleasant, resulting in undesirable and often embarrassing lifestyle adjustments and sleep deprivation.
Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a non-surgical technique that has drawn attention as a viable and highly effective replacement for invasive BPH treatments.
During PAE, a small catheter is passed into an artery in the wrist or the groin and guided to the prostatic arteries using X-ray imaging. Tiny embolic materials are then injected into the prostatic arteries. These particles block the blood supply to the prostate gland, effectively shrinking it.
PAE aims to reduce the symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate without surgery. By restricting the blood flow to the prostate, PAE causes the prostate gland to shrink over time. This approach relieves the pressure on the urethra and improves urinary symptoms.
PAE is performed under local anesthesia and patients can go home the same day. The procedure has a lower complication rate than traditional surgical BPH treatments.
Studies have shown PAE can provide significant relief from BPH symptoms, including improved urine flow and reduced frequency of urination. It is considered a safe and effective alternative to surgery for many men with BPH. However, not all patients are suitable candidates for PAE, and a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary to determine if this procedure is appropriate.
While PAE is a safe and highly effective solution for most BPH patients, some patients might not be viable candidates for the procedure. Alternative interventions might include the following strategies:
Monitoring BPH involves regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to assess the condition's progression and monitor any changes in symptoms. This approach is often recommended for men with mild to moderate symptoms or those who prefer a conservative management strategy.
Alpha-adrenergic blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors are commonly recommended for treating BPH.
Alpha-adrenergic blockers work by relaxing the smooth muscle in the prostate and bladder neck. This relaxation helps to relieve the obstruction of the urinary flow caused by an enlarged prostate. On the other hand, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors work by preventing the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone responsible for the growth of the prostate gland.
While medications can alleviate symptoms for many patients, they require continual administration. Moreover, some patients experience cardiovascular complications from alpha-adrenergic blockers.
Non-invasive transurethral approaches are techniques that involve guiding a thin tube through the urethra.
PAE offers the following advantages over invasive interventions
At Texas Endovascular, our team of experienced interventional radiologists is dedicated to providing personalized care and the latest advancements in prostate health. We understand the impact BPH symptoms can have on a man's life, and we strive to offer an effective solution that improves both urinary function and overall well-being.
If you are experiencing symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate and are seeking a non-surgical treatment option, we encourage you to contact our knowledgeable staff to schedule a consultation today.
Prostate artery embolization (PAE) offers excellent patient outcomes.
A 2017 study on PAE found that the procedure demonstrated a success rate of 90%, making it an effective treatment option for patients suffering from benign prostatic hyperplasia.
One of the key benefits of PAE is its ability to improve urinary flow. BPH often leads to urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, and the need to strain during urination. The study found PAE effectively addresses these symptoms, improving patients' urinary flow and overall quality of life.
Moreover, the study highlighted the low incidence of complications associated with PAE. A low complication rate is a significant advantage over traditional surgical treatments for BPH, which can carry a higher risk of complications.
Yes. Prostate artery embolization is considered a very safe procedure when performed by an experienced, board-certified interventional radiologist.
Because it is minimally invasive and uses only a tiny incision, the risk of serious complications is low.
Most men return home the same day and experience only slight discomfort during recovery.
Your doctor will review your individual health history and explain any specific risks, allowing you to make a confident decision.
Typically, PAE recovery time is under one week. Most patients can resume normal daily activities within a week after the procedure.
However, it is essential to note that recovery time can vary depending on multiple factors, including the patient's overall health and any comorbidities.
Comorbidities, or the presence of other medical conditions in addition to BPH, can affect the recovery time following PAE. If a patient has underlying health issues, like diabetes or heart disease, it may take longer to recover from the procedure fully. In such cases, patients must work closely with their healthcare provider to monitor their progress and ensure a safe and effective recovery.
Studies have shown that the effects of PAE can persist for up to four years in many cases. Patients who undergo the procedure can experience relief from BPH symptoms for a significant period.
However, it is important to note that the duration of relief can vary from patient to patient. While some individuals may find relief lasting up to four years, others have reported experiencing benefits for up to ten years. This extended relief is particularly impressive considering that alternative treatments for BPH, such as medication or surgery, may require more frequent intervention or have a higher risk of complications.
Though PAE is generally safe and well-tolerated, like any medical intervention, it does carry some potential side effects. It is important to understand these side effects before undergoing the procedure.
It is crucial to understand that while these side effects are possible, they are rare. The vast majority of patients who undergo PAE do not experience any significant complications. The benefits of PAE in alleviating BPH symptoms might outweigh the potential risks associated with the procedure.
Fortunately, post-procedure erectile dysfunction is extremely rare.
Studies have shown that PAE has the fewest accounts of erectile dysfunction compared to other BPH-related treatments.
In fact, many patients have reported improved erectile function after undergoing PAE.
Patients with kidney disease, contrast dye allergies, or asymptomatic BPH are not considered viable candidates for PAE.
Your doctor will require imaging tests to evaluate your PAE eligibility and ensure your safety during the procedure.
Discussing your medical history and any concerns with your doctor is crucial for determining the most suitable treatment plan for your specific situation.
In some instances, urinary symptoms may return over time despite the initial success of the PAE procedure. In these cases, it is important to know that PAE can be safely repeated to provide additional relief.
However, it is important to highlight that if the original PAE treatment did not alleviate BPH symptoms, it is generally not recommended to repeat the procedure. In such cases, alternative treatment options should be considered, and the patient should consult their healthcare provider for further guidance.
The cost of PAE can differ based on individual insurance plans.
Please note that this price is subject to change and may be influenced by various factors.
Please don't hesitate to contact the caring representatives at Texas Endovascular to discuss pricing and financing options.
Medicare covers PAE and related diagnostic tests for patients enrolled in Medicare.
At Texas Endovascular, we partner with Medicare and most major health insurance providers.
Each location offers the same specialized Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) care delivered by board-certified interventional radiologists. Houston and Dallas specialists serve patients throughout Texas at convenient locations, including:
4747 Bellaire Blvd
Suite 550
Bellaire, TX 77401
Scheduling
Please contact our dedicated specialists to schedule a consultation today.
