Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous condition characterized by an enlarged prostate gland in men. The enlargement of the prostate gland causes compression on the urethra, leading to urinary flow and passage issues.
- Frequency and urge to urinate, occurring especially at night
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak or intermittent urine stream
- Dribbling at the end of urination
- Urinary tract infections
- Inability to fully empty the bladder
- Presence of blood in the urine
- Risk factors for BPH:
- Older age
- Family history of prostate problems
- Higher BMI/low levels of physical activity
Prostate Artery Embolisation (PAE):
PAE is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces the size of the enlarged prostate by blocking the arteries that supply blood to the gland. It is performed by inserting a catheter through the groin artery and injecting tiny particles into the arteries supplying the prostate. This causes the prostate to shrink, relieving urethral compression.
PAE can be done as a day surgery procedure under local anesthesia, with minimal pain and discomfort, and a quick recovery time (4-6 hours post-procedure). There is no further risk of urinary incontinence or impotence, and most symptoms are significantly relieved. Prostate artery embolization serves as an alternative to both invasive surgery as well as long-term medication.
Suitability for PAE:
- Patients still experiencing symptoms despite oral medication
- Patients who have not seen improvement from other procedures
- Elderly patients at risk for general anesthesia and surgery
- Patients with bleeding risks unsuitable for TURP
- Patients seeking to maintain urinary continence and sexual potency
