PAE treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia

During the aging process for men, the prostate continues to grow. In most cases, this is not an issue, but for some, the growth can put pressure on the bladder and urethra, which can result in a variety of problems. This condition, known as BPH which stands for “Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia,” becomes problematic for many men. Some of the symptoms seen with BPH include: 

•         Frequent urination
•         Weak urine stream
•         Urgent urination
•         Incomplete bladder emptying
•         Urination at night
•         Straining and hesitancy to urinate

Without treatment, BPH often leads to medical conditions such as bladder damage, bladder infection, kidney stones, and incontinence. 

Prostate artery embolization 

With prostate artery embolization, or “PAE,” patients with moderate to severe urinary symptoms can find relief from benign prostatic hyperplasia. This procedure is minimally invasive and is available for patients at Metropolitan Vascular Institute in Waldorf, MD. The surgery is performed with sedation and local anesthetic, and requires the insertion of a small catheter into an artery on the body, typically one in the wrist or leg. The catheter is guided through the artery using three-dimensional x-ray technology to the prostate. Microscopic beads are delivered through the catheter to inhibit blood flow to the prostate which allows it to shrink and alleviates the urinary symptoms of BPH. 

What can I expect after prostate artery embolization? 

This procedure is safe and effective for many patients. It is performed as an outpatient procedure at our practice with patients resuming most normal activities the following day. Patients are discharged with over-the-counter pain medication and in some cases antibiotics. Within approximately one month, patients will notice an improvement in their symptoms as the prostate shrinks gradually and relieves pressure on the bladder and urethra. Patients schedule a follow-up appointment with their doctor to ensure the procedure has been successful and relief has been successfully achieved. 

Learn more about prostate artery embolization 

Discuss this and other services available at Metropolitan Vascular Institute in Waldorf, MD today by scheduling an appointment. Our office is located at 3015 Technology Place, Suite #100 and can be reached by phone at (301) 374-8540 for a consultation visit and initial evaluation.