Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE): What are the benefits of PAE treatment?

Prostate Artery Embolization Vs. Prostatectomy

Prostatectomy is a surgical technique involving total or partial excision of the prostate. It is typically administered as a treatment for prostate cancer, but it is also highly effective for BPH. However, there are significant risks and side effects.

Prostatectomy requires more than a month of recovery time and continual monitoring. Patients must use a catheter for approximately one week post-procedure, and it can take up to a year to achieve urinary control. Full erectile function can take more than a year to resume.

On the other hand, prostate artery embolization is a minimally invasive method that targets the prostate gland's blood supply. This approach effectively shrinks the prostate gland, relieving symptoms and improving urinary flow.

Additionally, prostate artery embolization offers a shorter recovery time compared to prostatectomy. Patients typically experience less pain and can resume normal activities within a few days. There is also minimal risk of bleeding with PAE, making it a much safer option.

Prostate Artery Embolization Vs. TURP

TURP is another standard treatment option for BPH that involves the partial removal of the innermost tissue within the prostate. It is performed by inserting a resectoscope with a cutting device into the urethra.

TURP is associated with significant side effects, such as bleeding, development of scar tissue, infection, and prolonged catheterization.

In contrast, prostate artery embolization has a significantly lower risk of side effects than TURP. It is a minimally invasive procedure with relatively little bleeding and a shorter recovery time.

Additionally, prostate artery embolization provides long-term relief from BPH symptoms. The treatment permanently reduces prostate size, significantly improving men's quality of life.

Benefits of Prostate Artery Embolization

PAE offers the following advantages over other BPH interventions:

• Non-Surgical: Compared with surgical procedures, PAE is a relatively minor outpatient procedure requiring only local anesthesia.
• A Lower Risk of Sexual Dysfunction: In contrast to open surgery or TURP, PAE has a significantly lower occurrence of sexual side effects like erectile dysfunction. Traditional surgical interventions occasionally cause reproductive complications, while PAE has not been shown to interfere with erectile function.
• Minimal Recovery Time: PAE generally requires significantly shorter recovery times than other BPH interventions. With either short or no hospital stays required, patients may return to work and other activities within a few days.
• Lower Bleeding Complications: PAE does not require incisions or tissue removal, making the risk of bleeding minimal compared to other approaches. PAE might be a better approach for patients taking anticoagulant medications.
• Outpatient Treatment: Most patients may undergo PAE as an outpatient procedure, which allows the patient to return home on the day of the procedure without hospitalization.
• Patient-Specific Treatment: The PAE procedure is a customizable approach that can be designed to accommodate the degree of prostatic enlargement and the unique anatomy of the patient, leading to superior results.
• Effective Solution for Patients with Complicated Medical Histories: Older patients or patients with preexisting health complications who might not be eligible for traditional surgery might be eligible for PAE.
• Can be Performed Under Local Anesthesia: Open prostatectomy or TURP requires general or spinal anesthesia. PAE can be performed under local anesthesia, which could be a good option for patients with health issues that make them suboptimal candidates for standard surgery.

Georgia Prostate Institute: Safe and Effective BPH Treatment Solutions

Georgia Prostate Institute has earned a stellar reputation as a trusted provider of BPH treatment. Through its highly skilled medical professionals, advanced treatment options, patient-centered approach, state-of-the-art facilities, and proven track record of positive patient outcomes, our team of specialists continues to deliver exceptional care to those suffering from BPH.

Patients can trust the Georgia Prostate Institute to provide them with the highest quality of treatment and support throughout their journey toward improved prostate health.

If you have concerns about your prostate health, please don't hesitate to contact our compassionate representatives today at 678-915-2000.