MIR / Patient Care / Interventional Services / Interventional Radiology / Interventional Procedures / Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE)

Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE)

PAE is a minimally invasive therapy for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) that can be performed with minimal sedation as an outpatient procedure. It has a success rate of 85% after one year and more than 75% in the long run. About half of all men between ages 51 and 60 have BPH, and up to 90% of men over age 80 have it.

For some patients, common symptoms of BPH interfere with their quality of life. These include:

  • Weak stream of urine
  • Inability to empty bladder
  • Straining during urination
  • Frequent and/or urgent need to urinate
  • Blood in the urine
  • Severe cases can result in infection and damage to the kidneys

All men who have been diagnosed with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and experience lower urinary tract symptoms that are not controlled well by medications and/or who are not willing or able to undergo invasive surgical treatments.

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and holmium laser enucleation of the prostate  (HoLEP) are surgical options to treat urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate. While TURP and HoLEP can improve urinary tract symptoms, both require general anesthesia and hospitalization.

Unlike the above procedures, PAE is performed under sedation and offers little to no risk of retrograde ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, incontinence or urine leakage. Additionally, there is less blood loss and less post-procedural need for hospitalization with PAE.

About 85% of men experience significant improvement in urinary symptoms in the first year. More than 80% of men experience improvement at 2 1/2 years, and more than 75% for as long as 6 1/2 years. In select groups of patients, there will also be improvement in sexual function after PAE.

You can Request a Consultation with an MIR interventional radiologist to learn more. You do not need a referral.

Coverage of PAE varies amongst different insurance carriers. We will work with you and your insurance company to determine if your plan covers the procedure.

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