Faq

PAE is typically recommended for men who have moderate to severe urinary symptoms due to an enlarged prostate and who have not responded well to medication therapy. Candidates for PAE undergo a thorough evaluation by a urologist and interventional radiologist to determine if the procedure is appropriate for them.

PAE offers several potential benefits, including a minimally invasive approach with lower risk of complications compared to surgery, shorter recovery time, preservation of sexual function, and effectiveness in reducing urinary symptoms.

During the PAE procedure, you will receive local anesthesia to numb the insertion site, typically in the groin or wrist. A small incision is made, and a catheter is threaded through the blood vessels to reach the arteries supplying the prostate. Embolic agents are then injected through the catheter to block blood flow to the prostate. The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours.

Following PAE, you may experience some discomfort or pain at the insertion site, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Most patients are able to return home the same day and resume normal activities within a few days to a week. It may take several weeks to months for urinary symptoms to improve fully as the prostate tissue shrinks.

While PAE is generally considered safe, there are some potential risks, including temporary urinary retention, urinary tract infection, and rare complications such as damage to surrounding structures or allergic reactions to the embolic agents. Your healthcare provider will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.

Coverage for PAE may vary depending on your insurance provider and individual policy. It’s important to check with your insurance company beforehand to understand your coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs.

PAE has been shown to be effective in improving urinary symptoms in the majority of men who undergo the procedure, with success rates ranging over 90% in various studies. However, individual results may vary, and some patients may require additional treatments or interventions.