Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)
Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is a non-surgical treatment for enlarged prostates. It involves injecting small particles into the prostate's blood arteries to reduce blood flow, leading a gradual shrinkage of the gland.
Enhance your well-being by discovering more about this procedure at Vive Vascular.
What Is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland surrounding the urethra in men. This growth can result in urinary issues such as frequent urination, weak stream, and difficulty initiating or halting urination.
What are common risk factors for an enlarged prostate?
What are the most common benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms?
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Frequent Urination: Needing to urinate more often than usual, especially at night (nocturia).
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Urgency: Feeling a sudden, strong need to urinate.
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Weak Urine Stream: The urine flow may be weaker or slower than before.
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Difficulty Starting Urination: It might take time for the urine stream to begin.
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Incomplete Emptying: Feeling like the bladder isn't completely emptied after urination.
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Dribbling: Urine might continue to dribble out after you've finished urinating.
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Straining: Having to push or strain to start and finish urination.
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Urinary Retention: In severe cases, the bladder may not be able to empty at all.
If you're experiencing these symptoms, make an appointment for an assessment. BPH management includes lifestyle changes, medications, or procedures like Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE), based on symptom severity.
What are the lifestyle impacts of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) can significantly impact daily life due to its urinary symptoms. These effects may encompass:
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Sleep Disruptions
Nighttime urination affects sleep and daytime function.
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Quality of Life
Urinary urgency impacts daily activities and social life.
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Physical Activity
Weak urine flow and urgency hinder physical engagement.
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Social and Travel
Frequent restroom trips limit social and travel activities.
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Emotional Impact
BPH-related stress and frustration disrupt routines.
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Work Productivity
Urgent bathroom visits affect work focus.
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Intimacy
Urinary symptoms strain intimacy and relationships.
It's worth noting that while an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH) doesn't inherently heighten the risk of prostate cancer, the presence of symptoms that overlap between the two conditions can lead to confusion. Also, both BPH and prostate cancer are more prevalent as men age and can even coexist in certain cases. Therefore, it's crucial to remain vigilant and promptly address any urinary changes.
To address these lifestyle impacts and understand potential health risks, seek expert medical guidance and suitable BPH management. Lifestyle modifications, medications, and medical procedures can provide relief from symptoms and enhance the overall quality of life. For comprehensive insights and effective strategies, consult our medical professionals at Vive Vascular.
Is there a minimally-invasive treatment option for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?
Absolutely, Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that tackles BPH by introducing small particles into the arteries that nourish the prostate gland. By limiting blood flow, it prompts the prostate tissue to diminish over time.
The goal of PAE is to relieve the urinary symptoms associated with BPH, such as frequent urination, weak urine stream, and urgency. By reducing the size of the prostate, urinary flow is improved and symptoms are alleviated. PAE is considered an alternative to more traditional surgical treatments for BPH, such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or open prostatectomy.
Typically carried out by an interventional radiologist, PAE offers reduced risks and faster recovery than conventional surgical methods. However, not all BPH patients are suitable for PAE. Book a consultation with our vascular specialist to ascertain your eligibility for this outpatient, minimally invasive treatment.
What is Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)
Discover how this minimally invasive treatment procedure works and how it can reduce blood flow to the prostate and relieve the urinary symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), such as frequent urination, weak urine stream and urgency.
What are the lifestyle advantages of prostate artery embolization (PAE) for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in your day-to-day life?
Results from Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) vary between individuals. Yet, numerous patients find notable relief from urinary symptoms post-procedure. Some common improvements include:
What are the advantages of Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) over traditional surgery?
Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) offers several potential advantages over traditional surgical treatments for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH):
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Minimally Invasive: PAE is a less invasive procedure, requiring only a small incision or entry point. This reduces complications and speeds up recovery compared to traditional surgery.
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Tissue Preservation: PAE aims to shrink the prostate gland by blocking blood flow, preserving more healthy tissue than surgical removal.
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No General Anesthesia: PAE often uses local anesthesia or conscious sedation, lowering risks compared to general anesthesia.
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Shorter Hospital Stay: PAE patients usually have shorter hospital stays or can even be treated as outpatients, leading to faster recovery.
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Lower Complication Risk: PAE is linked to lower risks of certain complications like bleeding and sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction, compared to traditional surgery.
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Faster Recovery: PAE often allows a faster return to normal activities than invasive surgeries.
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Repeat Treatment Option: PAE can be repeated if needed, offering flexibility for recurring symptoms.
It's important to note that the choice between PAE and traditional surgery depends on individual factors, including the size of the prostate, the severity of symptoms, and the patient's overall health.