Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) has come into the spotlight as a potential treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) to achieve relief from lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) without surgery. But patients wonder about its safety, effectiveness, and long-term outcome. Here are seven frequently asked questions about PAE that will assist you in making an informed choice.
- Is PAE Safe with an Enlarged Prostate?
PAE is safe to use in treating BPH. PAE entails blocking the flow of blood to the prostate, shrinking its size, and relieving symptoms. PAE has been found to be less complicated compared to conventional surgical procedures such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). The procedure is conducted on an outpatient basis, with little chance of severe side effects such as urinary incontinence or erectile dysfunction.
- What is the PAE Success Rate?
PAE is highly successful in alleviating BPH symptoms. It is comparable to TURP in lowering subjective symptom scores, with long-lasting relief for up to two years. Long-term follow-up studies show that PAE yields lasting results, although there can be a recurrence rate of approximately 20% within five years.
- What Are the Side Effects of Prostate Artery Embolization?
Typical side effects of PAE are mild and transient, such as slight pelvic pain, transient urinary symptoms such as frequency and urgency, hematospermia, and occasional urinary tract infections. Severe complications are infrequent, less than 5% of cases, and may consist of nontarget embolization causing ischemia in adjacent tissue.
- Who is a candidate for PAE?
PAE is appropriate for BPH patients who have not been responsive to medication or who want a minimally invasive procedure. The best candidates usually have a prostate size that is not too small since PAE is not as effective for small prostates. Patients with severe atherosclerosis, renal impairment, or severe contrast allergy are not good candidates.
- What Do PAE for BPH Reviews Say?
Reviews and literature indicate that PAE provides significant symptom improvement with a good safety profile. Improved quality of life and long-term relief from LUTS without meaningful sexual side effects are common reports from patients. Nonetheless, some patients may have more delayed symptom improvement compared to surgical treatments such as TURP.
- How Long Does PAE Last?
PAE offers long-term symptom relief for the majority of patients, lasting as long as two years or more. A risk of long-term recurrence does exist, but it has been reported at only about 20% within five years.
- What Are the Best Practices for PAE Recovery?
Recovery from PAE is typically straightforward. Patients are advised to rest for a few days and avoid strenuous activities. It’s also important to follow post-procedure instructions provided by your healthcare provider to minimize the risk of complications. For optimal results, choose a clinic with experienced interventional radiologists and advanced imaging technology like cone-beam CT to ensure precise embolization.