Prostate Artery Embolisation (PAE): A Revolutionary Treatment for Enlarged Prostate

By Dr. Shahnawaz B. Kaloo in Radiology , Interventional Radiology

Oct 12 , 2023 | 3 min read

The prostate, a small but essential gland located at the base of the urinary bladder in men, plays a crucial role in the reproductive system. However, as men age, the prostate can undergo enlargement, a condition known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). BPH affects a significant portion of the male population, with more than 50% of men experiencing it by the age of 60 and up to 80% by the age of 70. This growing prevalence poses a considerable health challenge as it can lead to a variety of bothersome symptoms, significantly affecting the quality of life of those affected. Fortunately, there is a cutting-edge medical procedure called Prostate Artery Embolisation (PAE) that offers relief to those suffering from BPH.

How Does Prostate Artery Embolisation (PAE) Work?

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 anaesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure. However, general anaesthesia 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.
Embolisation: 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.

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Benefits of PAE

Prostate Artery Embolisation 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 anaesthesia. 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.

Prostate Artery Embolisation (PAE) is a medical procedure that provides a minimally invasive solution to the common problem of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). By reducing blood flow to the prostate, PAE effectively shrinks the gland, leading to a significant improvement in BPH-related symptoms and a better quality of life for patients. Its minimally invasive nature, preservation of sexual function, reduced risk of complications, and swift recovery make PAE a compelling choice for men seeking relief from an enlarged prostate.

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If you're experiencing symptoms related to an enlarged prostate, don't hesitate to reach out to an interventional radiologist to discuss whether PAE is the right treatment option for you. Your quality of life matters, and PAE could be the solution you've been searching for.