Prostatic Artery Embolization Procedure Explained

At Arkansas Urology, many men come in feeling frustrated by frequent trips to the bathroom, a weak stream, or the constant urge to urinate. These symptoms are often caused by an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common condition in men as they age. While common, these urinary symptoms can significantly impact daily life, sleep, and overall comfort.

Prostatic artery embolization is a minimally invasive procedure designed to shrink the prostate and relieve pressure on the urinary tract. It offers an effective option for men seeking a minimally invasive alternative to surgery. By targeting the blood supply to the prostate, this treatment helps improve flow and reduce symptoms without the need for traditional surgery.

Dr. Molly Meek, an interventional radiologist at Arkansas Urology, specializes in advanced, minimally invasive treatments designed to improve quality of life. As part of a highly experienced care team, she uses advanced imaging technology to perform targeted procedures that treat prostate conditions without traditional surgery, helping patients get relief with less disruption to their daily lives.

What Is Prostatic Artery Embolization?

Prostatic artery embolization, also known as the PAE procedure, is a treatment that reduces blood flow to the prostate. The prostate sits just below the bladder, and the urethra, the tube that drains urine from the bladder, runs directly through the center of the prostate. As the prostate enlarges, it begins to squeeze this tube, making it harder for urine to pass through.

Instead of removing tissue, this procedure works by entering the blood vessels that supply the prostate and carefully reducing that blood flow. A small catheter is used to deliver tiny particles into the arteries, which slows circulation to the prostate and causes it to gradually shrink, reducing overall prostate size.

As the prostate becomes smaller, pressure on the urethra decreases, allowing urine to flow more easily and improving urinary symptoms over time.

Who Is a Candidate for the PAE Procedure?

This procedure is often recommended for men experiencing moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia. Common symptoms include frequent urination, difficulty starting urination, a weak stream, and the feeling of incomplete emptying. Some men also experience getting up multiple times at night, going to the bathroom every one to two hours, or a stream that stops and starts.

Prostatic artery embolization may be a good option for patients who want to avoid surgery or who have not found relief with medications. It is also an option for men who may not be ideal candidates for more invasive procedures.

A consultation at Arkansas Urology includes a full review of your symptoms, medical history, and imaging to determine if this outpatient procedure is the right fit for you.

Benefits of Prostatic Artery Embolization

One of the biggest advantages of this treatment is that it is a minimally invasive procedure. It requires only a small incision and does not involve removing prostate tissue, which shortens the recovery period, offers a shorter recovery time, and provides a lower risk of complications compared to traditional surgical options. These benefits of PAE make it an appealing option for many patients.

The procedure is performed as an outpatient procedure, so most patients go home the same day. Many men experience improvement in urinary symptoms such as urinary frequency and urgency, along with better urine flow.

Another important benefit is that there is a very low risk of sexual side effects, helping preserve sexual function compared to some traditional surgical treatments. This makes it an appealing option for many patients looking to preserve quality of life.

What to Expect During the Procedure

On the day of the procedure, patients arrive in the morning and are prepared with medications, often including a local anesthetic and light sedation to help them relax. A catheter may be placed in the bladder, and an IV is started to deliver medications and antibiotics.

The procedure is performed using advanced imaging technology that allows precise navigation through the blood vessels, ensuring treatment is delivered only to the arteries supplying the prostate. A small entry point is made, typically in the groin through the femoral artery, and a thin catheter is guided through the blood vessels to the arteries that supply the prostate.

Once the catheter is in position, embolic agents are released to slow the blood flow. This step is done carefully to ensure only the targeted blood vessels are affected. The procedure usually takes one to two hours.

Afterward, patients spend time in recovery before going home the same day.

Recovery and Results

Recovery from prostatic artery embolization is typically quick, with most patients experiencing a relatively short recovery period. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor progress and ensure proper healing. Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days.

It is important to understand that results are gradual. The prostate shrinks over time, and improvements in urinary symptoms typically continue over the course of three to six months. Many patients notice better flow, reduced frequency, and fewer nighttime bathroom trips as healing progresses.

Risks and Considerations

While the procedure is generally safe, there are some risks to be aware of. These may include minor bleeding at the entry site, temporary urinary discomfort, or mild pain after the procedure. In some cases, symptoms similar to a urinary tract infection may occur but are typically temporary.

Some patients may notice blood in the urine or a burning sensation during urination for a short period. These symptoms are usually temporary and can be managed with medication.

More serious complications are rare but can include damage to nearby structures or blood vessels. Your provider will review all risks and ensure you are a good candidate before moving forward.

PAE vs. Traditional Prostate Surgery

Traditional surgical treatments for benign prostatic hyperplasia often involve removing or reshaping prostate tissue. While effective, these procedures can require longer recovery times and carry additional risks.

Unlike transurethral resection of the prostate, which removes prostate tissue through surgery, prostatic artery embolization reduces blood supply to shrink the prostate without cutting or removing tissue.

In comparison, prostate artery embolization focuses on reducing the blood supply to shrink the prostate over time. This approach avoids major surgery and serves as a minimally invasive alternative for men seeking symptom relief without tissue removal.

Schedule a Consultation with Arkansas Urology

If you are dealing with ongoing urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, you do not have to manage them alone. With the right treatment plan, many patients experience lasting relief and improved quality of life.

Contact Arkansas Urology today to learn if prostatic artery embolization is right for you.