Prostate Artery Embolisation - A modern treatment option
Prostate Artery Embolisation (PAE) is an established and minimally invasive benign prostatic hyperplasia treatment. PAE offers lower complication rates and shorter recovery times compared to conventional surgical options. Additionally, this procedure has a lower risk of urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction compared to other treatments, making it an excellent choice for many men.
What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, a common condition, particularly in older men. BPH occurs when the prostate and surrounding tissue expand, which can squeeze the urethra—the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body—causing urinary symptoms. If you’re seeking treatment for enlarged prostate in Geelong, understanding the available options is essential for managing this condition effectively.
What are the symptoms of BPH?
Common symptoms of BPH include:
- Frequent urination: The need to urinate more often, especially at night (nocturia).
- Urgency: A sudden, urgent need to urinate.
- Weak urine stream: Difficulty starting urination or a weak urine stream.
- Incomplete emptying of the bladder: Feeling like you still need to urinate even after you’ve just done so.
- Straining: Difficulty in initiating urination or having to push or strain to urinate.
What happens during the procedure?
During prostate artery embolisation, a catheter is inserted into an artery in the groin and guided to the prostate arteries using advanced imaging techniques. Once the catheter is in place, small particles are injected into the arteries to block or reduce blood flow to the prostate. This blockage helps to shrink the prostate gland, alleviating symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty starting or stopping urine flow, and weak urine flow.
The procedure typically takes about 1-2 hours and is performed under local anaesthetic. Most patients can go home the following day and resume normal activities within a few days. However, treatment for an enlarged prostate through PAE is not suitable for all patients and should only be performed by a trained interventional radiologist following a referral from a specialist urologist.