A Minimally Invasive Treatment Option for Enlarged Prostate
Many men experience urinary symptoms as the prostate enlarges with age. While several treatments are available through urologists, some patients may wish to explore non-surgical alternatives that can help improve symptoms while preserving quality of life.
Prostate Artery Embolization is an image-guided procedure that reduces blood flow to the areas of the prostate responsible for enlargement. Over time, the prostate shrinks, helping relieve pressure on the bladder and urethra and improving urinary symptoms.
This procedure is performed in an outpatient setting, allowing most patients to return home the same day.
What Is Prostate Artery Embolization?
During the procedure, a small catheter is inserted into an artery, typically through the wrist or groin. Using advanced imaging technology, the physician carefully guides the catheter to the small branches of the prostate arteries that supply blood to the enlarged prostate tissue.
Tiny particles are then released to reduce blood flow to those areas. As the blood supply decreases, the prostate gradually shrinks over time, helping relieve urinary obstruction and improve bladder function.
Because PAE targets the specific arteries feeding the enlarged tissue, the surrounding structures remain unaffected.
The Benefits of Prostate Artery Embolization
For certain patients, PAE offers several advantages compared to traditional surgical treatments for BPH.
These benefits include:
- Minimally invasive procedure
- No surgical incision
- Outpatient treatment
- Shorter recovery time compared to surgery
- Reduced risk of certain side effects that may affect sexual function
- Gradual symptom improvement as the prostate shrinks
Because the procedure focuses on reducing blood flow to the enlarged prostate tissue rather than removing it surgically, many patients appreciate the ability to address symptoms without undergoing traditional prostate surgery.
Every patient is different, however, and a consultation is necessary to determine whether Prostate Artery Embolization may be appropriate.
Other Treatment Options for BPH
Men experiencing symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia often begin evaluation with a urologist, who may recommend a range of treatment options depending on symptom severity and prostate size.
Common treatment approaches may include:
- Medications
- UroLift
- Rezūm Therapy
- TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate)
While surgical treatments can be effective, some patients prefer to explore less invasive options that do not involve removing prostate tissue.
Other Treatment Options for BPH
Common treatment approaches may include:
Medications
While medications can be effective for some patients, others may continue to experience symptoms or prefer to explore additional options.
UroLift
Rezūm Therapy
TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate)
While surgical treatments can be effective, some patients prefer to explore less invasive options that do not involve removing prostate tissue.
How PAE Compares to Surgical Treatments
Many men choose to explore Prostate Artery Embolization because it offers a minimally invasive approach that works through the prostate’s blood supply rather than removing tissue surgically.
Another reason some patients consider PAE is that the procedure carries a much lower risk of side effects that may affect sexual function compared to certain surgical treatments. Because of this, PAE is appealing to patients who are looking for treatment options that address urinary symptoms while preserving sexual health.
The California Prostate Institute works closely with patients and, when appropriate, their urologists to ensure they have a clear understanding of all available treatment options.
What to Expect During Treatment
Prostate Artery Embolization is typically performed as an outpatient procedure.
During treatment:
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A small catheter is inserted into an artery through the wrist or groin.
- Imaging technology is used to guide the catheter to the prostate arteries.
- Tiny particles are released to reduce blood flow to the enlarged prostate tissue.
- The catheter is removed once the embolization is complete.
The procedure typically takes one to two hours, and most patients return home the same day.
Symptom improvement often occurs gradually over several weeks as the prostate begins to shrink.
Is Prostate Artery Embolization Right for You?
Not every patient with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia will be a candidate for PAE. A consultation with imaging evaluation is necessary to determine whether this treatment option may be appropriate.
Men who may benefit from Prostate Artery Embolization often include those who:
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Experience moderate to severe urinary symptoms
-
Prefer a minimally invasive treatment option
- Want to explore alternatives to prostate surgery
- Are not ideal candidates for traditional surgery
Our team will review your symptoms, medical history, and imaging studies to help determine whether PAE may be a suitable option for managing your enlarged prostate symptoms.
Learn More About Minimally Invasive BPH Treatment
If you are experiencing symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, you do not have to manage them alone. Several treatment options are available, including minimally invasive approaches like Prostate Artery Embolization.
The team at the California Prostate Institute is here to help you better understand your options and determine whether PAE may be an appropriate treatment for your situation.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about treatment for enlarged prostate in Orange County.