Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is a non-surgical way of treating an enlarged and troublesome prostate. This minimally invasive treatment for prostate enlargement has proven to be safe and effective in eliminating or greatly reducing the symptoms of an enlarged prostate without the potential complications of traditional prostate surgery.
Prostatic artery embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive treatment aimed for improving lower urinary tract symptoms that are caused by Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). Prostate enlargement is a common condition in men over the age of 50. Noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, the condition causes symptoms such as poor urinary flow, frequent urination, and incomplete bladder emptying. While oral medications may relieve symptoms for some patients, not all get relief with medications alone. Traditionally, the go-to medical procedure for an enlarged prostate has been Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP). However, the TURP procedure carries a risk of accidentally damaging the bladder, uretha, or surrounding nerves, which can lead to sexual dysfunction or loss of bladder control.
When compared with more invasive surgical procedures such as TURP, this procedure has a lower risk of urinary incontinence and sexual side effects (such as retrograde ejaculation or erectile dysfunction).
Prostate artery embolization shrinks the prostate by treating its blood vessels. It is performed by an interventional radiologist, a doctor who uses X-rays and other advanced imaging to see inside the body and treat conditions without surgery. The procedure is performed under light sedation and requires less than six hours at the hospital. Post-procedure side effects are minimal and typically last only one to three days.
An exam with an interventional Radiologist can determine if you are a candidate for prostate artery embolization. Pre-procedure workup may include: Urine test (urinalysis) and a digital rectal exam (to help assess the size of your prostate). In some cases, a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is done to help rule out prostate cancer. Diagnosis may also involve an MRI or ultrasound of the prostate gland.
Prostate artery embolization is performed through a small catheter inserted by an interventional radiologist into the artery in the groin or forearm. Tiny particles have injected that plug up the artery, blocking blood flow. This is called embolization. The process is then repeated on the other side. The procedure can take anywhere from 1-3 hours, depending on the location and size of the prostatic arteries. Following this procedure the prostate will begin to shrink, relieving and improving symptoms usually within days of the procedure.
Over a six- month period, the prostate will shrink by 20-40 percent, resulting in improved and less frequent urination.
To find out if you could be a candidate for Prostate Artery Embolization, schedule an appointment with an Urologist or Interventional Radiologist at American Hospital Dubai by providing your details in our secure online form, appearing below.
