What Is Prostate Artery Embolization?
Prostate Artery Embolization, or PAE, is an image-guided procedure used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — the medical term for an enlarged prostate. It is performed by an interventional radiologist and does not involve surgery, general anesthesia, or a hospital stay in most cases. PAE works by reducing blood flow to portions of the prostate, which causes the gland to shrink and reduces the urinary obstruction symptoms that BPH produces.
The procedure is performed through a small puncture at the wrist or inner thigh. A thin catheter is guided under fluoroscopic (X-ray) imaging to the prostate arteries, where tiny particles are delivered to block blood supply to the enlarged tissue. The prostate shrinks gradually over the weeks following the procedure, and urinary symptoms typically improve accordingly.
Symptoms PAE Is Designed to Address
- Frequent urination, including waking at night to urinate
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Difficulty starting urination
- Feeling that the bladder does not empty completely
- Urgency or inability to delay urination
PAE vs. Surgical BPH Treatments
The most common surgical treatment for BPH is TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate), which involves removing prostate tissue through the urethra under anesthesia. TURP is effective but carries risks including retrograde ejaculation and a recovery period that keeps most men from normal activity for several weeks. PAE does not carry the same risk of retrograde ejaculation, involves no cutting, and most patients go home the same day.
Candidacy for PAE
PAE is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Prostate size, vascular anatomy, severity of symptoms, and prior treatments all influence whether PAE is an appropriate option. Our interventional radiology team at MinVasive Medical in Paramus reviews each patient's imaging and history before making any recommendation.
MinVasive Medical — Serving NJ Patients
MinVasive Medical performs PAE for patients across New Jersey who are seeking relief from BPH symptoms without surgical intervention. If you are experiencing urinary symptoms related to an enlarged prostate and want to understand whether PAE is appropriate for you, a consultation with our team is the right first step.
