Are you experiencing issues with your prostate, like difficulty urinating, weak urinary stream, or frequent nighttime trips to the restroom? If so, you may be among the millions of men in Florida living with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) looking for effective treatments.
One of the newest BPH treatments that offers improved efficacy and long-lasting results is Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE), an innovative approach to delivering targeted therapy directly into the enlarged prostate gland.
In this blog, prostate specialist Dr. Adam Gropper shares the most frequently asked questions he receives about PAE treatment for BPH. If you’d like to know if you’re a good candidate for PAE, take our FREE 3-Minute Quiz to determine your International Prostate Symptom Score and see if you’re eligible.
You can also contact us at our Prostate Specialists of Miami clinic by calling (786) 500-5347 to schedule your consultation and answer any questions you have about the procedure.
What Is the Success Rate of PAE for BPH?
The success rate of PAE for BPH exceeds 85%.
If you are considering PAE, it’s important to talk to your doctor about the potential benefits and risks of the procedure. PAE is not right for everyone, but it can be a very effective treatment for BPH for many men.
For further reading: “PAE Success Rate: How Effective is Prostate Artery Embolization?”
What is Better, PAE or TURP?
The choice between PAE and Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a common concern for BPH patients. Here’s a comparison to help you decide:
| PAE | TURP |
| Minimally invasive procedure | Invasive surgery |
| No need for general anesthesia | Requires general anesthesia |
| Reduced risk of sexual side effects | Higher risk of sexual side effects |
| Suitable for prostates > 45 grams | Suitable for smaller prostates |
Ultimately, the decision between PAE and TURP depends on individual factors and the recommendation of your healthcare provider.
How Long Will Prostate Artery Embolization Last?
The long-term efficacy of PAE is still under study, but most studies have shown that it can provide effective relief of BPH symptoms for at least 5-7 years. For example, one study found that the mean International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) improved from 23.8 to 10.4 at 5 years after PAE. The study in BMC Urology found that the mean IPSS improved from 23.9 to 9.6 at 3 years after PAE.
It’s important to note that PAE is not always a permanent solution for BPH. The prostate may continue to grow over time, even after PAE. However, PAE can delay the need for more invasive treatments, such as surgery. If you have any concerns about how long PAE will last, be sure to speak with your doctor.
Do You Need a Catheter After PAE?
A urinary catheter may be placed during the procedure but will almost always be removed at the end of the procedure. Sometimes patients already have a catheter in place and that will be left as is until 3 weeks post-procedure.
What Happens to the Prostate After PAE?
After PAE, the prostate gland is deprived of blood supply and begins to shrink. This process is called necrosis. The body’s immune system then replaces the dead tissue with scar tissue, which further reduces the size of the prostate.
The amount of time it takes for the prostate to shrink after PAE varies from person to person. Most men experience a significant reduction in the size of their prostate within 3 weeks.
The shrinkage of the prostate gland after PAE can lead to a number of benefits, including:
- Reduced urinary frequency and urgency
- Improved urine flow
- Decreased need to get up at night to urinate
- Reduced risk of urinary tract infections
In some cases, PAE can also lead to a complete resolution of BPH symptoms. However, it is important to note that PAE is not a permanent solution for BPH. The prostate may continue to grow over time, even after PAE. However, PAE can delay the need for more invasive treatments, such as surgery.
What Are the Side Effects After PAE?
PAE is considered a safe and well-tolerated procedure, but like any medical intervention, it may have side effects. The most common side effects after PAE are mild and temporary. They include:
- Pain or discomfort in the groin or pelvic area
- Fatigue
- Mild fever
- Urinary frequency or urgency
- Blood in the urine, semen, or stool
These side effects usually go away on their own within a few days. However, if you experience any severe or persistent side effects, be sure to contact your doctor right away.
Less common side effects of PAE include:
- Infection of the prostate or urinary tract
- Allergic reaction to the embolization particles
- Damage to the nerves or blood vessels in the prostate or surrounding area
- Acute urinary retention (inability to urinate)
These side effects are rare, but they can be serious. If you experience any of these side effects, seek medical attention immediately.
How Long Is Recovery After PAE Procedure?
Recovery after PAE is typically straightforward and uncomplicated with most men able to go home the same day as the procedure. You may experience some mild side effects in the first few days, such as:
- Pain or discomfort in the groin or pelvic area
- Fatigue
- Mild fever
- Urinary frequency or urgency
These side effects are usually temporary and go away on their own within a week. You may be prescribed pain medication or antibiotics to help manage these symptoms.
Your doctor will likely recommend that you avoid strenuous activity and sexual intercourse for a few weeks after the procedure. You should also drink plenty of fluids to help flush the X-ray dye used during the procedure out of your system.
Most men are able to return to their normal activities within 2 days after PAE. However, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure a full and successful recovery.
Further reading: “Prostate Artery Embolization Recovery Time: What You Can Expect”
Your Path to Better Prostate Health Starts Here
If you’re currently considering your options for BPH treatment and are looking for “PAE near me” or “prostate artery embolization near me,” your search ends with Prostate Specialists of Miami.
At Prostate Specialists of Miami, you will consult directly with Dr. Adam S. Gropper, an authority in the field with over two decades of experience. Benefit from his extensive background and commitment to patient care.
Don’t wait to seek relief. Call us at (786) 500-5347 or complete our online form to schedule your consultation today. We’ll let you know if you’re a good candidate for PAE and answer any questions you have. Let Prostate Specialists of Miami guide you toward better prostate health.
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Prostate Specialists of Miami
15400 Biscayne Boulevard #104
Aventura, FL 33160
(786) 500-5347
https://prostatespecialistmiami.com/
