Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive treatment designed to alleviate lower urinary tract symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH refers to the noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, affecting approximately one in four men by age 55 and over half of men by age 60. As the prostate enlarges, it may partially obstruct the urethra, leading to bothersome urinary symptoms. These symptoms include urinary frequency and nighttime urination, urinary urgency, weak stream, and straining.

For men who are not satisfied by their medical therapy and are either ineligible for traditional surgery or prefer a less invasive approach, PAE offers an effective solution. Via a small puncture in the upper thigh or arm, an interventional radiologist (IR) guides a catheter to the vessels supplying blood to the prostate. By blocking these blood vessels, PAE reduces the size of the prostate gland, providing relief from urinary symptoms without the need for major surgery.

PAE has 95% clinical success and is performed as a same-day procedure, meaning no hospitalization is required. And unlike more invasive surgical options like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), PAE carries a lower risk of urinary incontinence and sexual side effects, such as retrograde ejaculation or erectile dysfunction.

To refer a patient for this procedure, please click here.