Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that treats an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is a promising treatment option for men who are experiencing symptoms of BPH, such as difficulty urinating, frequent urination, and urinary urgency.
PAE involves injecting tiny particles into the arteries that supply blood to the prostate. These particles block the blood flow, causing the prostate to shrink and relieve symptoms. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and typically takes about an hour.
What are the benefits of prostate artery embolization?
PAE offers several benefits over traditional BPH treatments, such as surgery:
- Minimally invasive: PAE is performed through a small puncture in the groin or wrist, avoiding the need for large incisions.
- Faster recovery: Patients usually recover from PAE within a few days.
- Less pain: The procedure itself is painless and requires only local anesthesia. Recovery is typically associated with minimal pain.
- Short hospital stay: Patients typically go home the same day or the day after the procedure.
- Reduced risk of complications: PAE is generally considered a safe procedure with low risk of complications.
Who is a good candidate for prostate artery embolization?
PAE is a good option for men who:
- Are experiencing symptoms of BPH that are not relieved by medications.
- Are not good candidates for surgery.
- Are looking for a minimally invasive treatment option.
What are the risks of prostate artery embolization?
PAE is generally considered a safe procedure, but like all medical procedures, it does carry some risks. These risks can include:
- Bleeding: There is a small risk of bleeding from the puncture site.
- Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the puncture site.
- Blockage of other arteries: There is a small risk that the particles injected into the arteries could block other arteries.
- Post-embolization syndrome: Some patients may experience pain, swelling, or urinary retention after the procedure. However, these symptoms usually resolve within a few days.
What are the different types of prostate artery embolization?
There are two main types of PAE:
- Transarterial embolization: This is the most common type of PAE. It involves injecting particles into the arteries that supply blood to the prostate.
- Transvenous embolization: This type of PAE involves injecting particles into the veins that drain blood from the prostate.
Which hospitals offer prostate artery embolization?
“PAE is a new and exciting treatment option for men with BPH,” says Dr. [Name of Expert], a leading urologist at San Jose Hospital. “It’s minimally invasive, has a fast recovery time, and is associated with less pain and risk of complications than traditional surgeries.”
Several hospitals across the country offer PAE. It’s important to find a hospital with experienced physicians and a dedicated team who specialize in PAE. You should also consider the hospital’s overall reputation and quality of care.
To find a hospital near you that offers PAE, you can search online or contact your doctor for a referral.
What should I ask my doctor before undergoing prostate artery embolization?
Before undergoing PAE, you should discuss your medical history, current medications, and any allergies with your doctor. You should also ask about the following:
- The risks and benefits of PAE.
- The success rate of PAE.
- What to expect before, during, and after the procedure.
- The cost of the procedure.
How can I find out more about prostate artery embolization?
There are many resources available to help you learn more about PAE. You can find information on the websites of medical organizations such as the American Urological Association and the Society of Interventional Radiology. You can also talk to your doctor or a urologist who specializes in PAE.
“It’s important to have a thorough discussion with your doctor to determine if PAE is the right treatment option for you,” says Dr. [Name of Expert]. “PAE can provide significant relief from BPH symptoms for many men, but it’s not the right choice for everyone.”
FAQ
Q: How long does it take to recover from PAE?
A: Most patients recover from PAE within a few days.
Q: Is PAE covered by insurance?
A: Coverage for PAE varies depending on your insurance plan. It’s important to check with your insurance company to see if PAE is covered.
Q: Is PAE painful?
A: The procedure itself is painless and requires only local anesthesia. Recovery is typically associated with minimal pain.
Q: How effective is PAE?
A: Studies have shown that PAE is effective in relieving symptoms of BPH in many men. However, the success rate can vary depending on the individual patient.
Q: Are there any long-term side effects of PAE?
A: While there is no evidence of long-term side effects, long-term studies are still ongoing. You should discuss any concerns about potential side effects with your doctor.
Q: Is PAE an alternative to surgery?
A: PAE is a minimally invasive alternative to surgery for BPH.
Q: Does PAE cure BPH?
A: PAE does not cure BPH, but it can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
PAE: Before and After Images
San Jose Hospital offers prostate artery embolization as a treatment option for men with BPH. If you are experiencing symptoms of BPH, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our urologists to discuss PAE and determine if it is the right treatment option for you.
For questions or to schedule a consultation, please contact San Jose Hospital at [Phone Number], [Email Address], or visit us at [Address]. We have a team of experienced urologists and a dedicated team who specialize in PAE. We are here to help you make informed decisions about your health.