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Conditions & Treatments

Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)

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What Is Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)?

Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces blood flow to the prostate. This causes the prostate to shrink over time and improves urinary symptoms in people with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH),a common cause of male incontinence.

PAE treats the blood vessels that feed the prostate instead of removing prostate tissue, helping patients avoid surgery. As blood flow decreases, the prostate becomes smaller, reducing pressure on the urethra and improving urine flow. 

What Does Prostate Artery Embolization Treat?  

PAE is a treatment option for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It can help with symptoms including:  

  • Frequent and urgent urination 
  • Urinating at night (nocturia) 
  • Weak urine stream 
  • Difficulty with urination
  • Feeling the bladder never completely empties 

What Are the Benefits of Prostate Artery Embolization?  

Compared to surgery to remove or reduce the prostate, PAE has many benefits including:  

  • No surgical incision 
  • Shorter hospitalstay
  • Local anesthesia with sedation 
  • Faster recovery
  • Less bleeding 
  • Lower risk of certain surgical complications 
  • Preserves the prostate

What Are the Risks of Prostate Artery Embolization?  

Risks may include:  

  • Post-Embolization Syndrome (includes fever, nausea, and fatigue)
  • Pelvic discomfort
  • Temporary urinary symptoms or irritation

Am I Eligible for Prostate Artery Embolization?  

You may be a candidate for PAE if you want to avoid surgery and have:  

  • Moderate to severe BPH symptoms 
  • Urinary symptomsthathavenot improved with medication 
  • Anenlargedprostate  

You may not be a candidate for PAE if you have:  

  • Prostate cancer
  • An active urinary tract infection 
  • Certain vascular conditions 
  • Kidney function concerns 
  • Other medical conditions

Our Approach

PAE is a treatment option for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It can help with symptoms including:  

  • Frequent and urgent urination
  • Urinating at night (nocturia)
  • Weak urine stream
  • Difficulty with urination
  • Feeling the bladder never completely empties

What to Expect

Before your procedure, your care team will review your medical history and provide a consultation. They may order lab work and imaging and will provide instructions before the procedure.

During the procedure, you will be sedated and receive local anesthesia. Guided by imaging, a small catheter will be placed in the prostate to deliver the material to occlude the blood vessels.

The procedure usually takes 2-4 hours. Variability depends on your individual anatomy.

Recovery Timeline

  • Procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, no hospital admission needed. You may experience some discomfort, fatigue, and temporary urinary symptoms.
  • You will need to rest and stay hydrated for the first 24 hours and may gradually resume normal activities over the next week.
  • From weeks 2-12, urinary symptoms will begin improving as your prostate shrinks. Your provider may request follow-up imaging and appointments.

What Sets Us Apart?

As a fully integrated academic health system, we combine advanced imaging technology, minimally invasive treatment techniques, and evidence-based care to offer patients access to innovative therapies close to home.

Our vascular and interventional radiologists work closely with our urology experts to develop a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms, goals, and overall health.

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Locations

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

No. PAE is a minimally invasive image-guided procedure performed through a tiny pinhole rather than a surgical incision. 

Most procedures take two to four hours. Variability exists because each person’s anatomy is different.  

Many patients begin noticing improvement within several weeks, with continued improvement over several months. 

Most patients do not require one, though this may depend on your specific condition.  

Some patients may require additional treatment in the future. Your provider will discuss long-term expectations with you. 

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