Prostate Artery Embolization Questions/Answers

How successful is prostate artery embolization?

A study published in 2017 of more than 1,000 men highlights the success rates of prostate artery embolization over several years. The findings indicate that the treatment effectively reduces the symptoms associated with BPH and improves patients' quality of life.

The results showed that prostate artery embolization had a success rate of over 90% in providing symptom relief and improving urinary flow for patients with BPH. Additionally, the benefits were sustained over a long period, with patients experiencing continued symptom improvement for up to five years after the procedure.

The study also reported that prostate artery embolization had a low complication rate, making it a safe option for patients who might not be appropriate candidates for surgery or who wish to avoid more invasive treatments.

The long-term effectiveness and safety of prostate artery embolization make it a viable alternative to traditional treatments for BPH, such as medication or surgery. It offers patients a minimally invasive option that can provide sustained symptom relief and improve their overall quality of life.

What is prostate artery embolization recovery time?

Prostate artery embolization recovery time is typically less than one week, though different patients with different comorbidities might require additional days to heal.

Factors that can influence recovery include – but are not limited to -- age, overall health, adherence to post-procedure care instructions, and the severity of the symptoms.

How long does prostate artery embolization last?

Most studies indicate that prostate artery embolization results last approximately four years. However, it's not unusual for symptom relief to last up to ten years.

What are prostatic artery embolization side effects?

Side effects of prostate artery embolization might include the following:

• Urinary infection
• Painful urination
• Blood in urine
• Blood in semen
• Rectal bleeding
• Urinary retention

However, post-procedure complications are rare and can be effectively treated.

What about prostate artery embolization and erectile dysfunction?

While erectile dysfunction can occur after prostate artery embolization, it is extremely rare. Prostate artery embolization has the lowest incidents of erectile dysfunction compared to standard surgical intervention and has even been found to improve erectile function in some patients.

Who is not a candidate for prostate artery embolization?

Patients with kidney disease or damage are unsuitable candidates for prostate artery embolization. Moreover, patients with minimal prostate enlargement or who are asymptomatic are not good candidates for the procedure.

Patients with allergies to contrast dyes are not candidates for prostate artery embolization.

Your healthcare provider might require prostate imaging – ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – to determine whether prostate artery embolization is right for you.

Is prostatic artery embolization Medicare treatment?

Medicare covers prostatic artery embolization. Moreover, most health insurance providers cover prostate artery embolization if they provide coverage for prostate surgery. Nevertheless, please check your plan to make sure you have the appropriate coverage.

Can prostate artery embolization be repeated?

Yes – prostate artery embolization can be safely repeated if symptoms return. However, if the procedure didn't reduce your lower urinary tract symptoms, having the procedure performed again isn't recommended.

What is the cost of prostate artery embolization?

Prostate artery embolization is among the most cost-effective treatments for BPH. The cost of prostate artery embolization can vary depending on the provider and the clinic's location, but the procedure typically costs approximately $2,000.

If you have questions or concerns about the cost of your treatment, please don't hesitate to contact the helpful representatives at Georgia Prostate Institute at 678-915-2000 so we can assist you.