Prostate artery embolization (PAE) has become a popular and highly effective treatment option for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) otherwise known as an enlarged prostate. For many men, the symptoms of BPH like weak urine flow, urgency to urinate and nighttime trips to the bathroom impact their quality of life. So, it’s hardly surprising that one of the questions on most patients’ minds is “How long does prostate artery embolization last?”
This article gives you an insight into the longevity of PAE, what factors influence its effectiveness and why it’s worth considering the procedure as a treatment option. But first, here’s a reminder of the PAE procedure.
PAE is a minimally invasive procedure performed by an Interventional Radiologist usually on an out-patient basis. The patient is given a local anesthetic and sometimes light sedation to help him relax during the procedure.
The procedure starts with the radiologist making a small incision into the wrist or groin enabling him to insert a tiny catheter into an artery. Ultrasound imaging helps The radiologist navigate the catheter through the maze of blood vessels until it reaches the arteries supplying blood to the prostate.
Tiny particles are then injected into the targeted arteries blocking the flow of blood and gradually causing the prostate to shrink and ease the urinary symptoms associated with BPH.
Most patients report significant relief from their symptoms within a couple of months following PAE and this continues to improve for up to 6 months.
In the longer term, it seems that some patients may benefit from PAE for up to 6 years.
Several large-cohort studies have demonstrated long-term PAE outcomes, according to the Journal of Urology,
One particular 6-year study announced by the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) on March 1, 2023, affirmed that PAE is indeed effective in the long-term treatment of BPH-related urinary symptoms.
1000 participants who underwent prostate embolization reported sustained relief from uncomfortable urinary symptoms for up to 6 years resulting in a marked improvement in their quality of life.
Improvements were assessed using the 35-point International Prostate Symptom Score where symptoms are ranked as mild, medium or severe.
Pre-PAE patients with a mean score of 23 (severe) reduced their score to 6 (mild) within the duration of the study. These results are very similar to those achieved from invasive surgical treatments.
Furthermore, sexual function was not negatively impacted and there was no report of leakage after PAE.
Before undergoing PAE, participants in the study were also asked how they would feel if they had to spend the rest of their lives with their urinary condition the way it was at that time.
Their reply was measured as 5, meaning mostly dissatisfied. However, following PAE and within a year, the score was measured as a 1, meaning mostly satisfied, and this remained consistent throughout the six years.
While PAE is not considered a permanent solution, it offers patients significant and long-term relief from their symptoms. In some cases, however, PAE may need to be repeated if the symptoms return.
Several factors can affect how long patients enjoy the benefits of PAE:
Compared to conventional surgical procedures like TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate) or laser treatments, PAE offers a lower-risk alternative with fewer side effects. TURP, for example, is effective but comes with risks such as sexual dysfunction and bleeding.
Medications like alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors are another option, but they can cause side effects like dizziness or fatigue and may need to be taken indefinitely.
PAE strikes a balance between long-term relief and minimal disruption to daily life, making it an appealing choice for many patients.
PAE is ideal for men who are experiencing moderate to severe BPH symptoms but wish to avoid invasive surgery or the long-term use of medications. However, not everyone is a candidate for PAE. Factors like severe arterial disease, prostate cancer, or certain medical conditions may make the procedure unsuitable.
The best way to determine if PAE is right for you is to schedule a consultation with an experienced interventional radiologist.
Now you have the answer to the question “How long does prostate artery embolization last?” perhaps it’s given you a push in the right direction.
If BPH symptoms are interfering with your life, prostate arterial embolization may be the solution you’ve been searching for. At Mint STL, our skilled team specializes in minimally invasive treatments designed to help you feel your best with minimal downtime.
Don’t wait. Take the first step toward lasting relief today. Contact Mint STL now to schedule your consultation and learn more about how PAE can transform your life.
