Interventional Radiology
Prostate Artery Embolisation Procedure

If you’re exploring treatment options for an enlarged prostate, Prostate Artery Embolisation (PAE) can be your best solution. This cutting-edge minimally invasive procedure performed by an interventional radiologist reduces the blood supply to the prostate, shrinking it over time and alleviating symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The Interventional Radiology Society of Australasia (IRSA) is here to help you find a skilled interventional radiologist in Australia or New Zealand who can perform this procedure and guide you through your treatment journey.

What is Prostate Artery Embolisation (PAE)?

PAE is a minimally invasive interventional radiology procedure to treat an enlarged prostate. Under X-ray guidance, a micro-catheter—a very fine tube—is navigated to the arteries that supply the prostate. Tiny plastic beads are then injected to block blood vessels providing blood flow, gradually shrinking the prostate and relieving urinary symptoms caused by BPH. This procedure is an excellent alternative to surgery for many men, offering a shorter recovery time with fewer risks.

Why Would My Doctor Refer Me for This Procedure?

If you have been diagnosed with an enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and are experiencing symptoms such as frequent urination, urinary incontinence, weak urine stream, or incomplete bladder emptying, PAE may be recommended as a minimally invasive alternative to surgery. By reducing the prostate’s blood supply by embolising blood vessels, this treatment aims to relieve lower urinary tract symptoms without the need for major surgery, potentially delaying or eliminating the need for future surgical intervention.

PROSTATE ARTERY EMBOLIZATION (PAE)

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About the Procedure

Diagnosis

You’ll undergo an assessment to confirm BPH, which may include an ultrasound of the bladder and prostate, a PSA blood test, and a urine flow exam. In some cases, additional imaging, like MRI, may be required.

Preparation

You’ll be asked to fast from midnight before the procedure, and some medications, such as blood thinners, may need to be paused. Your doctor will give you specific instructions based on your unique situation.

Procedure

After numbing the skin, the radiologist inserts a catheter through a small puncture in your thigh or wrist. Using X-ray guidance, the catheter is directed to the arteries supplying the prostate, where tiny plastic beads are released to block blood flow. The procedure takes about 2-3 hours, and both sides of the prostate can be treated in one session.

Recovery

Most patients are discharged the same day. You should avoid driving for 24 hours and limit strenuous activities for two days. It’s common to experience mild urinary discomfort for a week, which is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

pae recovery

Benefits of Prostate Artery Embolisation

PAE provides relief from BPH symptoms without major open or traditional surgery. The procedure has a shorter recovery time and fewer complications than traditional prostate surgeries, like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). Most men experience significant improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms, often with no impact on sexual function or continence, leading to high satisfaction rates among patients.

Risks of Prostate Artery Embolisation

Although it is an outpatient procedure, PAE carries some risks like all medical procedures. These may include:

  • Bruising or bleeding at the catheter site
  • Mild pain or fever following the procedure
  • Temporary urinary retention or infection

In rare cases, there may be issues with the arteries or unintended embolisation of nearby organs. Your interventional radiologist will thoroughly explain these risks and answer any questions you have before proceeding.

When Can I Expect to See Results?

Most patients notice an improvement in urinary symptoms within the first month after PAE. However, as the prostate gland continues to shrink over several months, you may see continued symptom relief for up to six months post-procedure. Regular follow-up appointments will help monitor your progress and ensure the best outcome.

Find a Doctor

IRSA’s “Find a Doctor” tool can help you locate an experienced interventional radiologist in Australia or New Zealand who specialises in PAE. Use our comprehensive directory to search by location and specialty, ensuring you find the right doctor to support your journey toward relief from BPH.

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FAQs

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can lead to urinary symptoms, such as frequent urination, urinary incontinence, and weak urine flow. Prostate Artery Embolisation (PAE), a minimally invasive procedure, can help alleviate these symptoms by blocking the blood vessels that supply blood to the prostate, reducing the size of the prostate. Find interventional radiologists near you through IRSA’s “Find a Doctor” tool to see if PAE is right for you.

Men experiencing moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms and urinary incontinence due to benign prostatic hyperplasia and seeking a minimally invasive treatment may be ideal candidates for PAE. An interventional radiologist will perform a thorough evaluation to determine if PAE is a suitable interventional radiology procedure for your condition.

PAE is generally well-tolerated as a minimally invasive interventional radiology procedure performed under local anaesthetic. You may feel a slight pinch during catheter insertion, but most of the procedure is painless. Mild discomfort afterward typically resolves within a week. An IRSA-listed interventional radiologist can provide more details on what to expect during and after PAE.

Common side effects include mild pain, fever, and temporary discomfort. Serious complications are rare but can include issues with the arteries or surrounding organs. Your interventional radiologist, accessible through IRSA’s “Find a Doctor” tool, will discuss all potential risks with you before this prostate gland procedure.

Most patients recover quickly, with many resuming normal activities within a few days. You should avoid strenuous activities for 48 hours and keep the dressing on the access site for two days. Consult an IRSA-listed interventional radiologist to get personalised recovery advice based on your specific case.

PAE has minimal impact on sexual function, unlike some surgical treatments for BPH. With a lower risk of sexual side effects, PAE is a preferred option for many men. To learn more, connect with interventional radiologists through IRSA’s “Find a Doctor” tool in Australia or New Zealand.

Use IRSA’s “Find a Doctor” tool to locate a qualified interventional radiologist in Australia or New Zealand who specialises in PAE. You can search by location and specialty to find a professional who can guide your treatment journey.


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