Prostate artery embolization (PAE) in Austin with our experienced professionals at Medical Vascular Partners is a minimally invasive treatment that relieves urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, also medically known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BHP). At Medical Vascular Partners, double board-certified diagnostic and interventional radiologists Dr. Rajiv Srinivasa and Dr. Taylor Maloney perform this outpatient procedure using advanced imaging to target the prostate’s blood supply, helping reduce gland size and improve comfort without surgery or lengthy recovery.
Overview
Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that treats benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common condition where the prostate enlarges and disrupts urinary flow. During PAE, your physician inserts a tiny catheter into the arteries supplying the prostate and injects microscopic particles to reduce blood flow. This causes the prostate to gradually shrink, easing urinary symptoms over time. Because PAE is image-guided and does not require open surgery, most patients experience less discomfort and a quicker return to daily activities.
Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) Treats
Prostate artery embolization (PAE) treats benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that interferes with normal urinary function. As the prostate grows, it can compress the urethra and disrupt bladder control, leading to uncomfortable symptoms. PAE helps reduce prostate size and ease these issues, including:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Difficulty starting urination
- Feeling unable to empty the bladder completely
- Sudden urges to urinate
- Straining or discomfort during urination
How Prostate Artery Embolization
(PAE) Works
Prostate artery embolization reduces blood flow to the enlarged prostate. Using advanced imaging, your physician guides a thin catheter through a tiny incision in the wrist or groin and into the arteries that supply the prostate. Microscopic particles are then released to block these vessels, limiting the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the gland. As a result, the prostate gradually shrinks, relieving pressure on the urethra and improving symptoms. Because the treatment targets specific arteries, it preserves surrounding structures and avoids surgical removal.
Advantages of Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)
Prostate artery embolization offers a modern, minimally invasive alternative for men seeking relief from enlarged prostate symptoms without surgery. By shrinking the prostate from within, PAE allows patients to regain urinary control and comfort with fewer side effects and faster recovery. Key advantages of PAE include:
- Performed through a tiny incision without major surgery
- Minimal downtime and quicker return to normal activities
- Reduced risk of urinary incontinence or sexual side effects
- Less postoperative pain or discomfort
- Outpatient procedure with no hospital stay required
- Preserves surrounding tissues while targeting only the prostate’s blood supply
Is Prostate Artery Embolization Safe?
Yes. PAE has been extensively studied and is considered a safe treatment option for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in Austin. Because it is minimally invasive and uses precise imaging, the risk of complications is significantly lower than with traditional prostate surgery. Most patients go home the same day and resume normal activities within a few days.
Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) FAQs
How Long Does It Take to Notice Results After PAE?
Symptom improvement typically begins within a few weeks, with continued benefits developing over several months. As the prostate gradually shrinks, urinary function improves, nighttime bathroom trips decrease, and overall comfort increases. Each patient responds differently, but measurable improvements often continue for six months or longer.
Will PAE Affect Sexual Function?
Unlike some surgical treatments that can damage nerves or structures related to sexual performance, PAE targets only the arteries feeding the prostate. Most patients do not experience erectile dysfunction or loss of ejaculation due to PAE.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Your physician makes a tiny incision in the wrist or groin and inserts a small catheter into the arteries supplying the prostate. Using real-time imaging, microscopic particles are delivered to block blood flow. The procedure usually lasts one to two hours.
Who is a Good Candidate for PAE?
PAE is ideal for men experiencing bothersome urinary symptoms from an enlarged prostate who wish to avoid surgery or have not found relief with medication. It is ideal for patients with larger prostates or those who may not be good candidates for surgical intervention due to other medical conditions.
Schedule Your Consultation
Medical Vascular Partners is dedicated to providing minimally invasive, image-guided treatments that help patients feel better without traditional surgery. Our double board-certified diagnostic and interventional radiologists use advanced techniques to precisely treat enlarged prostate symptoms and restore urinary comfort. If you’re struggling with urinary issues related to benign prostatic hyperplasia, schedule a consultation for prostate artery embolization (PAE) in Austin, TX, today. We help you reclaim your comfort and quality of life.
