What Is PAE?
Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive technique that helps to improve lower urinary tract symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia. Benign prostatic hyperplasia or noncancerous prostate gland enlargement is a common condition that occurs in men. The conditions increase with age and may lead to the problem of urination and weak urine stream or trouble starting urination. It may also cause other health problems like kidney, bladder, or urinary tract infections. With the help of imaging techniques like PAE, doctors can see inside the body and successfully treat conditions without surgery.
What Can Someone Expect From A PAE Procedure?
The PAE procedure is used to decrease the size of prostate glands. It involves blocking the blood flow of small branches of the prostatic arteries using microparticles. In most cases, the PAE procedure takes between 1- 4 hours.
The procedure is performed by applying local anesthesia. The physician then inserts a small catheter into the patient’s upper thigh artery. The tiny particles are then injected into prostate arteries through the catheter. These particles help to reduce the blood supply and shrink the enlarged prostate glands. The procedure thus helps to reduce prostatic hyperplasia symptoms. Research has shown that the results of PAE treatments last for 7+ years.
9 Benefits Of A Prostatic Artery Embolization?
1. The PAE procedure has a shorter recovery time than the other surgical procedures.
2.As an outpatient procedure, most patients are home the same day.
3. The procedure is easy to carry out; it involves local anesthesia and is done as a day case.
4. The procedure is said to have a high success rate of more than 90%.
5. The treatment lowers the risk of urinary incontinence.
6. It has virtually no blood loss.
7. It is a less painful procedure.
8. It helps to improve LUTS without surgery which can significantly improve the quality of life.
9. Complications involved with the procedure are very rare.
Is PAE Right for You?
if you’re a man over the age of 50, there’s a good chance you’re starting to worry about an enlarged prostate. You’re not alone – this is a common problem that affects millions of men each year. However, with the advancement in medical science, new techniques are being discovered every day and PAE is one of those modern solutions available.
Depending on your condition, a doctor may prescribe medication to control prostate enlargement. However, for patients suffering from the discomfort and complications of an enlarged prostate, PAE offers a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery. PAE is said to be the safest and most effective way to treat patients with a larger noncancerous prostate gland.
When is Prostatic Artery Embolization needed?
Benign prostate tumors can many times be left untreated if there are no associated symptoms or pain. However, as the prostate gets bigger, it may constrict or partly block the urethra, causing lower urinary tract symptoms such as:
- Urinary incontinence, which can range from some leaking to complete loss of bladder control
- Irritative voiding symptoms
- Increased urinary frequency, urgency, and pain upon urination
When symptoms worsen and are affecting your lifestyle and well-being, it is a clear sign to see a 1Prostate specialist. Together, you and your doctor will decide on the best course of action that provides the best treatment plan.
If you are seeking the best prostate care in New York City, consider 1Prostate. Our doctors are proud to offer a PAE and a number of other treatments to address enlarged prostates and related conditions. With two locations to serve Manhattan, Queens, and the surrounding areas our offices are never too far away. Call our office (212-991-9991) or contact us online to ask about how we can help you.
