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Prostate Embolization

Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)

Living with an enlarged prostate can disrupt your daily life with frequent bathroom trips and uncomfortable urinary symptoms. At the Orange County Interventional Radiology Center, we offer prostate artery embolization (PAE) — a modern, minimally invasive treatment that can help reduce these bothersome symptoms without major surgery. Our experienced interventional radiologists use advanced imaging technology to provide effective treatment with minimal downtime.

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What Is Prostate Artery Embolization?

Prostate artery embolization is a nonsurgical procedure that treats benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate. During the procedure, tiny particles are delivered through a small catheter to block blood flow to the prostate, causing affected areas to shrink over time. This reduces pressure on the urethra and helps relieve urinary symptoms without removing prostate tissue.

BPH is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate. It is not prostate cancer, nor is it considered a risk factor or precursor to prostate cancer. BPH is the most common prostate problem among men, affecting nearly 50% by age 60. When the prostate gland is enlarged, it can cause the urethra to narrow, leading to difficulties with urination and sexual function.

Understanding BPH and Its Impact on Quality of Life

As men age, the prostate naturally grows larger. While this growth is normal, when the prostate becomes too enlarged, it can compress the urethra and cause a range of urinary symptoms. Many men find these symptoms significantly impact their daily activities and sleep quality.

The severity of BPH symptoms can range from mild to severe. Men with mild symptoms might experience occasional urgency or frequency, while those with more advanced BPH may face urinary retention, bladder stones, or even kidney damage if left untreated. Traditional treatments often involve medications with potential side effects or surgeries that require hospitalization and lengthy recovery periods.

For men seeking relief without major surgery, prostate artery embolization offers a compelling middle ground. This innovative procedure preserves prostate tissue while addressing the root cause of symptoms — the enlarged prostate itself.

How Does Prostate Artery Embolization Work?

Our interventional radiologists perform prostate artery embolization using advanced imaging guidance for precise treatments. The procedure begins with a tiny pinhole incision in the wrist or groin to access an artery. Through this small entry point, we guide a catheter to the blood vessels that supply the prostate. Once in position, we inject microscopic particles that permanently block off (embolize) blood flow to the enlarged prostate tissue. As the prostate receives less blood, it gradually shrinks in size over the next several months.

Ideal Candidates for Prostate Artery Embolization

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PAE provides relief for men experiencing the symptoms of an enlarged prostate without major surgery. This innovative approach can be particularly beneficial for those who haven’t responded well to medications or want to avoid the risks associated with more aggressive treatments, such as transurethral resection or electrovaporization of the prostate.

You may be a good candidate for PAE if you:

  • Have moderate to severe urinary symptoms from an enlarged prostate
  • Prefer a minimally invasive treatment option with a quick recovery
  • Haven’t found adequate relief with prescribed medication
  • Wish to preserve sexual function and avoid the risk of incontinence
  • Have a prostate that’s too large for other minimally invasive procedures

During your consultation, our interventional radiologists will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms and perform any necessary imaging tests to determine if prostate artery embolization is right for you. We’ll take time to understand your specific concerns and goals, helping you make an informed decision about your care.

What to Expect During Treatment

Prostate artery embolization is performed on an outpatient basis using local anesthesia and a mild sedative, meaning you’ll be able to return home the same day. It typically takes one to two hours to complete. During your procedure, a small catheter is inserted in the wrist or groin. Using real-time imaging, it will be guided to the blood vessels supplying the prostate. Once in place, tiny embolic beads are injected to block blood flow. The prostate will shrink over the next several months, providing symptom relief. When the procedure is complete, we remove the catheter and apply light pressure and a bandage to the access site — no stitches are needed.

Prostate Artery Embolization Recovery

One of the major benefits of prostate artery embolization is the quick recovery time. Patients return home the same day and can resume normal activities within 24-48 hours. You may experience mild pelvic discomfort or urinary symptoms for a few days, which we can manage with medication if needed. While some men notice an improvement within weeks, the full benefits typically develop over one to three months as the prostate gradually shrinks.

How Does PAE Compare to Other BPH Treatments? 

When considering treatment options for BPH, it’s helpful to understand how PAE compares to alternatives. Traditional approaches like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) have been the standard for many years, but they involve removing prostate tissue via surgery.

Other options for the treatment of a mild to moderately enlarged prostate include medications like alpha-blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, which can help relieve symptoms but may cause dizziness, fatigue or sexual dysfunction. Some men find these medications effective, while others experience inadequate relief or cannot tolerate the side effects.

Newer procedures like UroLift® or Rezūm™ offer less invasive alternatives but may not be suitable for all men. The right choice for you depends on various factors, including prostate size, symptom severity, overall health and personal preferences. Our specialists can help you navigate these options and determine the best approach for your specific situation.

Why Choose OCIR for Your PAE Procedure

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Our team combines advanced expertise in interventional radiology with a dedication to personalized patient care. We understand that dealing with BPH symptoms can be frustrating, which is why we strive to make your treatment journey as smooth as possible.

When you choose OCIR for prostate artery embolization, you benefit from:

  • A team of skilled specialists using the latest techniques and technology
  • State-of-the-art imaging for precise, targeted treatments
  • Outpatient procedures with no overnight hospital stays
  • Flexible scheduling with minimal wait times
  • Comprehensive care from your first consultation to your recovery

Let’s work together to find relief from your BPH symptoms using the most advanced minimally invasive techniques available.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

If you’re struggling with the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, we can help. At Orange County Interventional Radiology, we specialize in providing nonsurgical solutions for conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia. Our experienced team of interventional radiologists will take the time to answer your questions and create a personalized treatment plan just for you.

Contact our offices in Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, or Irvine today at (949) 317-1633 to schedule your consultation and find out if this treatment option is right for you.

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FAQ'S

Got Questions? We Have Answers

What are the symptoms of prostate enlargement?

An enlarged prostate typically causes urinary issues that can significantly impact your daily life. Common symptoms include frequent urination (especially at night), a weak urine stream, a delayed start to urination, a feeling that your bladder isn’t completely empty and straining while urinating. Some men also experience dribbling after finishing or may need to urinate again shortly after. While these symptoms can be frustrating, treatments like PAE can help provide significant relief without the need for major surgery.

Is prostate artery embolization covered by insurance?

Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover prostate artery embolization when medically necessary. Our team will work with your insurance provider to determine coverage and obtain any required pre-authorizations.

What size does my prostate need to be for PAE to be effective?

PAE can be effective for prostates of various sizes, which is one of its advantages over other minimally invasive treatments. While some procedures have limitations, PAE can effectively treat even significantly enlarged prostates. During your consultation, our specialists will evaluate your prostate size and determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure.

How effective is prostate artery embolization?

Clinical studies show that PAE can shrink the prostate by 20-40% in the majority of patients within six months of treatment. This reduction directly correlates with symptom improvement, as the pressure on the urethra decreases and urinary flow improves. The International Prostate Symptom Score (I-PSS) questionnaire, which measures the severity of BPH symptoms, typically shows significant improvement following PAE treatment.

Does treatment affect sexual function?

Unlike some traditional prostate surgeries, prostate artery embolization generally does not impact sexual function or cause erectile dysfunction. Many men report maintained or improved sexual function after treatment due to reduced urinary symptoms.

Will I need to use a catheter after the procedure?

Unlike some surgical BPH treatments, PAE typically doesn’t require the use of a catheter following the procedure. However, if you were already using a catheter before PAE, you might need to continue using it until your prostate shrinks enough to allow normal urination. Our interventional radiologists will discuss this with you based on your specific condition.

Are there any risks associated with PAE?

While all medical procedures carry some risk, complications from PAE are rare. Minor side effects may include temporary pelvic discomfort, urinary symptoms, digestive issues and fatigue. Your doctor will discuss all potential risks during your consultation.

How long do the results last?

After PAE, your prostate will gradually shrink over the course of several months as the blood supply is reduced. Clinical studies show that the benefits of PAE typically last for many years, with most patients maintaining significant symptom improvement. The prostate may continue to grow naturally with age, but at a slower rate than before. If symptoms return years later, PAE can potentially be repeated, or other treatment options can be considered.

Our Locations

Three Locations, One Commitment: Your Care

Lake Forest

29300 Portola Parkway, Suite B
Lake Forest, CA 92630
Toll Free: (800) 267-5677

Hours of Operation

Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Mission Viejo

26921 Crown Valley Parkway, #120
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Toll Free: (800) 267-5677

Hours of Operation

Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Irvine

18102 Sky Park Circle South, Suite D
Irvine, CA 92614
Toll Free: (800) 267-5677

Hours of Operation

Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

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