You’ve just gone to bed and fallen asleep, finally unwinding after a long day. But barely an hour later, you’re jolted awake by a familiar and unwelcome urge. As you walk to the bathroom, waiting for that slow trickle to start, you can’t help but wonder, “Is this my life now?” If you’re nodding in recognition, you’re likely one of the millions of men grappling with an enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). But here’s the good news – you don’t have to resign yourself to endless nights of disrupted sleep and days ruled by your bladder’s whims.
When it comes to treating BPH, two procedures often come up in discussions: Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) and Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP). Both aim to alleviate BPH symptoms, but PAE has been gaining attention as a preferred option for many patients and healthcare providers.
In this blog, prostate specialist Dr. Adam S. Gropper from Prostate Specialists of Miami compares “PAE vs TURP,” and why PAE might be a better choice for managing your BPH symptoms. He’ll discuss the benefits, risks, and what you can expect from each procedure. By the end of this blog, you’ll have a clearer understanding of your options, helping you make an informed decision about your prostate health.
PAE and TURP
Before we compare these treatments, it’s crucial to understand what each procedure entails.
What is PAE?
PAE is a minimally invasive procedure where an interventional radiologist uses advanced imaging to guide a catheter through your arteries. Tiny particles are injected to block the blood supply to your prostate, causing it to shrink gradually. This procedure is particularly helpful for men with moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms caused by BPH. While symptom relief may take weeks or even months, the procedure can offer significant long-term improvement.
What is TURP?
TURP is a surgical procedure where a urologist inserts a resectoscope through your urethra to remove excess prostate tissue. This procedure has been the traditional go-to for BPH treatment for many years, especially for men with moderate to severe symptoms. TURP is typically used for prostates that are not excessively large (generally under 80-100 grams) and remains a reliable option for many men.
Why PAE is Gaining Preference
Minimally Invasive Nature
One of the most significant advantages of PAE is its minimally invasive approach. Unlike TURP, which involves cutting and removing prostate tissue, PAE is performed through a small puncture in your groin or wrist. This means:
- Less pain during and after the procedure
- Reduced risk of bleeding
- Shorter hospital stay (often outpatient)
- Quicker recovery time
You’ll likely find yourself back to your normal activities much sooner with PAE compared to TURP.
Preservation of Sexual Function
For most men, maintaining sexual function is a top priority. PAE has shown promising results in this area:
- Lower risk of erectile dysfunction compared to TURP
- Reduced likelihood of retrograde ejaculation (a common side effect of TURP)
While both PAE and TURP generally preserve erectile function, PAE has the added benefit of reducing the risk of retrograde ejaculation, a side effect that occurs in a significant number of TURP cases. By choosing PAE, you’re opting for a treatment that aims to improve your quality of life without compromising your sexual health.
Effectiveness for Larger Prostates
If you have a significantly enlarged prostate, PAE might be particularly beneficial. While TURP can become more challenging and riskier for very large prostates, PAE has demonstrated effectiveness regardless of prostate size. In some cases, more invasive surgical options may be recommended for extremely large prostates. However, PAE remains a viable and effective option for men who might not be ideal candidates for TURP or other traditional treatments.
Lower Risk of Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence is a potential complication of prostate procedures that many men worry about. Studies have shown that PAE carries a lower risk of this side effect compared to TURP. While TURP may occasionally cause mild, temporary incontinence, serious incontinence is rare. Nonetheless, PAE has the advantage of a generally lower risk of affecting your bladder control.
No Need for General Anesthesia
PAE is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation, while TURP requires general or spinal anesthesia. This means:
- Reduced risks associated with general anesthesia
- Quicker recovery from the procedure itself
- Possibility of treatment for those who might not be candidates for general anesthesia
For patients with underlying health conditions that make general anesthesia risky, PAE offers a safer alternative.
Considering the Long-Term Outlook
When weighing your options, it’s important to think about the long-term effects of each procedure.
Durability of Results
Both PAE and TURP aim to provide long-lasting relief from BPH symptoms. While TURP has historically been known for its durable results, more recent studies on PAE show similarly promising long-term outcomes. Patients who undergo PAE often experience sustained symptom improvement for years after the procedure.
Possibility of Retreatment
In some cases, BPH symptoms may return over time. If this happens, PAE can be repeated if necessary. TURP, on the other hand, is more challenging to repeat due to the risk of scar tissue and other complications from multiple surgeries. This makes PAE an appealing option for men who may need retreatment in the future.
Quality of Life Improvements
Patients who undergo PAE often report significant improvements in their quality of life. From better sleep due to reduced nighttime urination to increased confidence in social situations, the benefits extend beyond just symptom relief. While TURP also provides symptom relief, PAE offers a modern approach that addresses both physical and lifestyle concerns with fewer potential complications.
Making Your Decision
While PAE offers numerous advantages, it’s essential to remember that every patient’s situation is unique. Your healthcare provider will consider factors such as:
- Your overall health
- The size of your prostate
- The severity of your symptoms
- Your personal preferences
They’ll use this information to recommend the best course of action for you. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and express your concerns during your consultation.
As you consider your BPH treatment options, PAE stands out as a leading choice for many men. Its minimally invasive nature, preservation of sexual function, effectiveness for various prostate sizes, and lower risk of certain complications make it an attractive option. While TURP remains a reliable treatment for some patients, PAE offers a modern, patient-friendly alternative that prioritizes your overall well-being and quality of life.
Remember, the best treatment for you is one that addresses your specific needs and concerns. Discuss your options thoroughly with your healthcare provider to make an informed decision that you feel confident about.
Take the Next Step: Explore PAE for Your BPH
You’ve learned about the differences between PAE and TURP for treating BPH in Florida. While both procedures can be effective, PAE for BPH offers several advantages that make it the preferred choice for many men.
If you’re tired of frequent nighttime bathroom trips and are ready to explore a minimally invasive treatment option, it’s time to consider Prostate Artery Embolization. This advanced procedure could be the key to significantly improving your quality of life and freeing you from the constraints of BPH.
At Prostate Specialists of Miami, Dr. Adam S. Gropper brings over two decades of experience as an interventional radiologist, specializing in PAE procedures. Dr. Gropper can help you determine if PAE is the right choice for managing your BPH symptoms effectively.
Don’t let BPH dictate your Florida lifestyle any longer. Contact us directly at (786) 500-5347 to schedule a consultation, or use our confidential online form to book your appointment. During your visit, we’ll discuss how PAE procedure for enlarged prostate compares to TURP and why it might be the optimal solution for your specific situation.
Remember, choosing the right BPH treatment is a crucial decision. You’ve taken the first step by learning about your options; now let’s explore how PAE can help you regain control of your prostate health and enjoy life to the fullest.
Before you go, we invite you to download our FREE guide, “5 Reasons to Choose Prostate Artery Embolization,” and discover why PAE could be the best choice for you.
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Prostate Specialists of Miami
15400 Biscayne Boulevard #104
Aventura, FL 33160
(786) 500-5347
http://prostatespecialistmiami.com/
