Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is an innovative and minimally invasive procedure used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common condition that causes an enlarged prostate. BPH often leads to urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, and the sensation of incomplete bladder emptying. Prostate Artery Embolization provides a non-surgical solution for individuals who may not be candidates for traditional prostate surgery or who wish to avoid the risks and recovery time associated with more invasive treatments.
Prostate Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that involves blocking the blood vessels that supply blood to the prostate. The goal of the procedure is to reduce the size of the prostate by cutting off its blood supply, leading to a reduction in prostate tissue over time. A vascular surgeon or doctor performs this procedure using specialized equipment to navigate through the blood vessels to the prostate.
During Prostate Artery Embolization, the doctor injects tiny particles into the prostate's arteries, effectively blocking the blood flow to the gland. This reduction in blood supply causes the prostate tissue to shrink, helping to relieve the symptoms of BPH. The procedure is typically done through a small incision in the groin, where the doctor inserts a catheter into the femoral artery and advances it toward the prostate arteries.
Before undergoing Prostate Artery Embolization, patients will have a pre-procedure consultation with their vascular surgeon. During this visit, the surgeon will review the patient's medical history, conduct a physical exam, and discuss the patient's specific symptoms and treatment goals. The doctor may use imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, to map the blood vessels leading to the prostate, ensuring precise embolization during the procedure.
The vascular doctor may instruct patients to avoid eating or drinking for a certain period before the procedure, typically six to eight hours, to ensure safety during the treatment. If the patient takes any medications, especially blood thinners, the doctor will provide specific instructions on when to stop or adjust them. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any allergies or pre-existing conditions, as these may affect the approach to the procedure.
After the procedure, patients are monitored for a short time in a recovery area to ensure there are no immediate complications. Most patients can return home the same day. The recovery process is generally quick, with minimal downtime compared to traditional prostate surgery. Some discomfort, such as mild swelling or bruising at the incision site, may occur but usually resolves within a few days.
The doctor will instruct patients to avoid heavy physical activities and strenuous exercise for a brief period after the procedure to allow the body to heal. It is common to experience mild urinary symptoms, such as frequency or urgency, during the first few days as the prostate begins to shrink. The full effects of prostate artery embolization may take several weeks to months, but many patients begin to notice improvements in their urinary symptoms soon after the procedure.
Prostate artery embolization offers a minimally invasive treatment option for men suffering from the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia. The procedure helps reduce prostate size by blocking the blood vessels that supply it, providing relief from urinary symptoms without the need for traditional surgery. To determine if prostate artery embolization is effective for you, schedule a consultation at Vascular & Interventional Specialists of Orange County.
Request an appointment here: https://visoc.org or call Vascular & Interventional Specialists of Orange County at (714) 598-1194 for an appointment in our Downey office.
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