Prostate Artery Embolization
A Breakthrough in BPH Relief: Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)
Are you struggling with frequent urination, weak flow, or disrupted sleep due to an enlarged prostate? You’re not alone — Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) affects over half of men by age 60. Fortunately, there’s a minimally invasive, outpatient solution that may help you avoid surgery and preserve your quality of life. It’s called Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) — a safe, innovative alternative to traditional BPH treatments, offered right here at our Interventional Radiology Center.
What is Prostate Embolization
PAE is a non-surgical procedure that shrinks the prostate by reducing its blood supply. An interventional radiologist uses real-time imaging to guide a tiny needle through the groin artery to access the blood vessels supplying the prostate. Then, microscopic particles are delivered to block the blood flow to the overgrown prostate tissue, causing it to shrink naturally over time. As the prostate shrinks, pressure on the bladder and urethra is relieved — helping you urinate more easily and comfortably.
How Does PAE Compare to Traditional BPH Treatments?
Most traditional procedures — such as TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate), GreenLight Laser, or HoLEP (holmium laser enucleation) — involve surgically removing prostate tissue. While these treatments are effective, they also carry risks, including:
- Bleeding
- Urinary incontinence
- Sexual dysfunction
- Longer recovery times
Minimally invasive options like UroLift and Rezum are less invasive but are often limited by prostate size — meaning they may not be effective if your prostate is significantly enlarged.
Why Choose PAE?
PAE is a scalpel-free approach that works regardless of prostate size and avoids many of the side effects associated with surgery. Some of the key benefits include:
- Minimally Invasive – No cutting, no surgical removal of tissue
- No General Anesthesia – Performed under light sedation
- An Outpatient Procedure – Go home the same day
- Quick Recovery – Resume normal activities within days
- Preserves Sexual Function – Lower risk of erectile dysfunction and retrograde ejaculation
- No Catheters Through the Urethra – Nothing inserted via the penis
- Effective for Larger Prostates – Ideal even when other minimally invasive options aren’t
Side effects from the procedure are generally mild and resolve quickly. Most patients do not even experience pain after the procedure, and there is no need for long-term catheterization. Most patients experience significant relief from urinary symptoms within weeks, including:
- Less frequent urination
- Reduced urgency
- Better urine flow
- Fewer nighttime awakenings
Is PAE Right for You?
Prostate Artery Embolization may be an excellent option if you:
- Have been diagnosed with BPH
- Desire to stop medications or have intolerable side effects from medication
- Want to avoid surgery or preserve sexual function
- Have a larger prostate not suited for UroLift or Rezum
- Prefer a quick recovery and less downtime
Get Back to Living Comfortably
If you’re dealing with the frustrating symptoms of BPH, you don’t have to live with them — and you may not need surgery to fix them. Prostate Artery Embolization offers a safe, effective, and convenient alternative that fits your lifestyle.
Talk to your urologist about your BPH symptoms and find out if PAE is the right choice for you.
Get Back To Feeling Great
Our whole team is here to help! Conrad Pearson strives to offer new patients an appointment within a week and for those with urgent needs, we offer same-day appointments.
