Prostate artery embolization (PAE) works by cutting off most of the blood supply to the enlarged prostate causing it to shrink over time and relieving bothersome urinary symptoms. Since this is a minimally invasive procedure, most patients are released from the clinic on the day of their procedure so they can recover in the comfort of their home. But how long does it take to recover from prostate artery embolization, what can you expect?
In this article, we’ll walk you through the recovery process, what to expect at each stage, and how to ensure a smooth healing journey.
Unlike traditional surgeries such as TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate) recovery from PAE is less demanding and considerably faster. Because the procedure is conducted through a small incision in the wrist or upper thigh, patients avoid hospital stays and weeks of downtime associated with more invasive surgeries.
Here's how the recovery timeline looks:
Timeframe: 1-3 days
Immediately following PAE, the tissues will be inflamed as a response to the procedure. By the evening of the PAE day, some men will experience symptoms similar to those of a urinary tract infection which some medical professionals refer to as Post-PAE Syndrome. Typically this can be a combination of the following symptoms:
In the case of a particularly enlarged prostate, men may experience pelvic pain, fatigue and fever which are normal side effects of large territory embolization. Symptoms such as a weak urine stream may also worsen for a few days.
Fortunately, all of these symptoms can be managed with prescribed medication and generally quickly resolve.
Patients are advised to take things easy for a couple of days following PAE. Avoid any heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and standing still for long periods.
Short term recovery
Timeframe: First 1-4 weeks
Once the initial symptoms subside, most patients start to get back to normal and can usually return to work within 3-7 days of their PAE procedure.
As the inflammation resolves, most patients will notice an improvement in their urine stream and the bladder will adjust to the increased flow.
As the bladder is better able to empty, so other symptoms such as urinary frequency, urgency, and nighttime urination improve. A top tip is to drink plenty of fluids to flush the system and promote healing.
If a patient is feeling considerably better by 4 weeks, they are generally taken off alpha-blockers such as tamsulosin. This medication is often prescribed to help reduce the symptoms of an enlarged prostate and acts by relaxing the muscles surrounding the bladder and prostate gland, making it easier to urinate.
A top tip is to resume normal activities gradually, listening to your body as you ease back into your normal routine.
Time frame: 2-3 months post PAE
Over time, the wall of the bladder thickens because the bladder muscles have to work harder to push the urine past the enlarged prostate. Once the prostate is no longer an obstruction, the muscles may slim down and become more pliable or elastic. Consequently, there is more storage room in the bladder and less urgency when voiding. This is the reason why it takes up to three months (or longer) to feel the full effects of PAE.
The above timeframe is purely for guidance. Every patient’s recovery is unique and various factors can affect healing, such as:
Studies reveal that PAE has a high success rate, with over 80% of patients (could we provide a link here also) experiencing long-term symptom relief and an improved quality of life.
While PAE complications are rare, regular check-ups with your healthcare specialist are essential to monitor the procedure’s efficacy.
Hopefully, this article has answered your question “How long does it take to recover from prostate artery embolization.”
The next step is selecting an experienced team of specialized interventional radiologists to perform your PAE - Enter MINT STL.
We specialize in cutting-edge, minimally invasive treatments like PAE. Our experienced team of interventional radiologists uses the latest technology to ensure safe, effective results tailored to your needs.
What sets us apart?
So, now you know how long it takes to recover from prostate artery embolization, you don’t need to suffer in silence.
If you’re tired of living with the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, PAE could be the solution you’ve been searching for. Contact MINT STL today to schedule a consultation and learn how this innovative procedure can transform your life for the better.
