Prostatic Artery Embolization Addresses Issues Caused By an Enlarged Prostate Gland in Men and Is Considered an Alternative to Surgery
Prostatic artery embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive approach used for the treatment of enlarged prostates without the risk of sexual side effects. The approach addresses issues caused by an enlarged prostate gland in men and is considered an alternative to surgery. An interventional radiologist performs PAE procedure by using X-rays and other advanced imaging technologies.
Prostatic artery embolization is used in the treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a
common problem among older men. The prevalence of histologically diagnosed BPH
in the U.S. increases from 8% in men aged 31–40 years to over 80% in men older
than age 80. The condition negatively
impacts quality of life and results in considerable medical intervention and
expenses.
In prostatic artery embolization, a healthcare
professional makes a small puncture in the wrist or the groin in order to
insert a catheter through the artery. The catheter is pushed towards the
prostate and small particles are injected in the branches within the prostate
in order to halt the blood flow. This process can be termed as embolization. BPH,
if left untreated can lead to urinary incontinence, which creates interfere
with the quality of life of a patient. PAE procedure can be an effective
alternative to traditional surgery. The patient may undergo urinalysis, digital
rectal exam, prostate-specific antigen test, and MRI of the prostate gland
before PAE is initialized.
In prostatic artery
embolization, the radiologist uses arteriogram to map the blood vessels that
supply blood to the prostate. The procedure helps in decreasing the size of the
prostate and helps improve other symptoms such as difficulty starting an
urination stream and dribbling at the end of urination. The outpatient
procedure takes about two hours, whereas recovery takes just a few days. The
procedure, however, has some risks involved that include, transient blood in
urine, acute urinary retention, and rectal bleeding.
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