Prostate Artery Embolisation (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat an enlarged prostate, secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH can cause urinary obstruction, frequent urination and interrupted sleep.

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Using imaging guidance, a thin catheter is inserted through an artery in the wrist or groin and advanced into the arteries supplying the prostate. Tiny particles are injected to reduce blood flow to the prostate, causing it to gradually shrink and relieving pressure on the urethra. PAE is an effective alternative to traditional prostate surgery, particularly for men who have persistent symptoms despite medication, experience medication side effects or wish to avoid surgery.It is best suited to men with large prostates (>50cc), with persistent symptoms despite medication or who wish to consider an alternative to surgery. 

 

Your urologist may recommend urodynamic testing prior to PAE to assess outflow obstruction and bladder contractility.

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PAE also has a limited role in prostate cancer treatment, supporting primary therapies such radiotherapy and treating refractory bleeding.

 

The minimally invasive benefits of PAE include,

• Very low risk of procedural and postoperative blood loss

• Minimal risk of infection

• Can be performed without  general anaesthesia

• Routinely same-day discharge

• Rapid recovery and return to normal functioning 

• Preserved erectile and ejaculatory function (no retrograde ejaculation)

• Safely repeatable if symptoms recur