Prostatic Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia or an enlarged prostate. At NY Urology, our team offers PAW as a treatment option for patients seeking an alternative to traditional surgery.
What is Prostatic Artery Embolization?
Prostatic artery embolization is a non-surgical procedure used to treat an enlarged prostate. The procedure involves an injection of tiny, round microspheres through a catheter into the blood vessels to your prostate. These particles help reduce blood to the prostate gradually, allowing the prostate to shrink to improve symptoms.
PAE is recommended for patients with moderate to severe BPH who have responded poorly to other treatments, such as medications or lifestyle changes. However, PAE has several advantages over traditional BPH treatments, which include:
- Minimally Invasive: PAE is performed through a small incision in the wrist or groin, avoiding general anesthesia and reducing the risk of complications.
- High Success Rate: PAE effectively reduces urinary symptoms and improves the quality of life in up to 90% of patients.
- Quick Recovery: Most patients can go home the same day as the procedure and return to normal activities within a few days.
- Fewer Side Effects: Compared to surgery, PAE has fewer side effects, such as incontinence, impotence, and retrograde ejaculation.
PAE is a generally safe procedure with a low risk of complications. However, some potential risks of this procedure include:
- Bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site.
- Pain or discomfort during the procedure or afterward
- Infection or allergic reaction to the contrast dye used in X-ray imaging.
- In rare cases, damage to the arteries or other surrounding structures.
During the PAE procedure, our radiologist will insert a small catheter into an artery in the wrist or groin and guide the catheter to the prostate gland using X-ray imaging. Small particles are then injected through the catheter to block the blood flow to the prostate, causing it to shrink over time. The procedure usually takes 1-2 hours and is performed under local anesthesia.
Learn More About Prostatic Artery Embolization
As a leading urologic treatment provider, our team of urologists, led by Dr. David Shusterman, has extensive experience performing Prostatic Artery Embolization and other advanced urologic procedures. Dr. David Shusterman is a highly skilled urologist who has successfully performed numerous PAE procedures. He works closely with each patient to ensure they receive the personalized care they need most.
At NY Urology, we are committed to providing personalized care and helping our patients achieve optimal health and wellness. Our team works with each patient to develop a treatment plan that meets their needs and goals. Through us, patients have access to some of the most advanced urology treatments available, including prostatic artery embolization. If you want to learn more about PAE or schedule a consultation with Dr. Shusterman, please call NY Urology today at 219-991-9991. We have two convenient locations in Forest Hills, NY, and New York, NY.
