Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE): A Revolutionary Treatmen

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PAE is a minimally invasive procedure performed in an angiography suite equipped with advanced imaging technology. The key objective of PAE is to reduce the blood supply to the enlarged prostate, leading to its shrinkage and alleviating the associated symptoms. 

Here's a step-by-step breakdown of how PAE works:

• Patient Preparation: The patient is typically given local anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure. However, general anesthesia is not required.
• Catheter Insertion: A tiny catheter is carefully inserted into the arteries that supply blood to the prostate. Fluoroscopy, a real-time X-ray imaging technique, guides the catheter's precise placement.
• Embolization: Once the catheter is in the correct position, tiny particles (usually microspheres or embolic agents) are injected through the catheter. These particles flow with the bloodstream and eventually reach the small arteries that nourish the prostate.
• Blocking Blood Supply: The injected particles block these small arteries, reducing the blood flow to the prostate gland. With decreased blood flow, the prostate begins to shrink in size.
• Relief from Symptoms: As the prostate gradually shrinks over the coming days and weeks, patients typically experience a significant improvement in BPH-related symptoms, such as urinary frequency, urgency, nocturia, weak stream, dribbling, and chronic urinary retention.

Prostate Artery Embolization offers numerous advantages, making it an attractive treatment option for men with BPH:

• Minimally Invasive: PAE is a minimally invasive procedure, meaning it does not require surgery or general anesthesia. Patients typically experience less pain and a shorter recovery time compared to traditional surgical interventions.
• Preservation of Sexual Function: Unlike some surgical treatments for BPH, PAE has been shown to have minimal impact on sexual function. This is a crucial factor for many patients concerned about potential side effects.
• Reduced Risk of Complications: PAE carries a lower risk of complications compared to surgical procedures, such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or open prostatectomy.
• Improved Quality of Life: Perhaps the most significant benefit of PAE is the substantial improvement in the quality of life it offers to patients. Relief from BPH symptoms allows individuals to regain their comfort and confidence, enabling them to lead more fulfilling lives.

PAE is nonsurgical. That means side effects are often minimal and go away on their own after a short time.

Side effects may include:

Urinary tract infection (UTI): This happens in less than 1% of patients. We will give you antibiotics to

prevent this.

Increased urinary frequency, urgency or burning: These symptoms can last for up to one week after

PAE.

Is PAE safe?

Yes, PAE is considered a safe, minimally invasive procedure. It has a low risk of complications.

How long does it take to recover from PAE?

Most patients return to normal activities the day after the procedure. Typically, symptoms improve within a few weeks.

Symptoms may keep improving over the next few months.

Will PAE affect my sexual function?

It is not linked with sexual dysfunction or erectile dysfunction. In fact, many patients have no bad side effects on sexual health.