If you’re considering prostate artery embolization (PAE) to treat the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) then it’s understandable that you would want to know about any potential side effects of this minimally invasive procedure. Understanding prostate artery embolization side effects will help you to make an educated decision and feel confident about your treatment plan. But before jumping into any side effects here’s a quick reminder of what’s involved in the procedure.
Prostate artery embolization (PAE) has become a regular treatment for BPH, otherwise referred to as an enlarged prostate and indeed, the largest long-term study of 1,000 men has shown that it provides sustained relief for up to six years from uncomfortable and embarrassing urinary symptoms.
The goal of PAE is to shrink the enlarged prostate by reducing its blood supply. This is achieved by injecting minuscule particles into the blood vessels feeding the prostate and starving the gland of the nutrients it needs to grow. It’s an excellent solution for patients wishing to avoid invasive surgery or denied surgery due to medical reasons.
While PAE is validated as a safe and effective treatment for BPH, like any medical treatment it does come with potential risks and side effects, albeit relatively minor. Let’s take a closer look.
PAE is generally well-tolerated in qualified candidates, however, you may experience some temporary side effects. These include:
Post-embolization syndrome (PES)
PES is a common occurrence following PAE and refers to symptoms such as nausea, fever, and dysuria. In most cases, these symptoms disappear within a few days but on rare occasions, severe cases can require a visit to the Emergency Department.
Pelvic discomfort or pain
It’s normal to feel pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvis following the PAE procedure. Typically, the pain is relatively minor and can be eased with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Should the pain become more persistent or severe, you should seek medical advice.
Blood in urine, semen or stool
Another common side effect of prostate artery embolization is blood in the urine, semen or stool. There’s no need to worry as this is a normal part of the healing procedure and should subside within a few days.
Scrotal pain or swelling
Because the arteries delivering blood to the prostate and scrotum are close together, some patients can experience swelling and discomfort in the latter following PAE. Usually, this discomfort is only temporary and can be relieved with cold compresses and pain relievers.
Allergic reaction
While it’s relatively rare, some patients can be allergic to the contrast dye used in the PAE procedure to identify the prostatic artery. To avoid this, it’s critical to inform your healthcare provider of any known allergies. CO2 gas is a safe and effective alternative when standard agents are contraindicated.
Fatigue
It’s not uncommon to feel tired or low after any medical procedure, and PAE is no different. Rest and drink plenty of water during the recovery period and you’ll soon bounce back.
Frequent or difficult urination
Some patients report:
Fortunately, all of these symptoms are only temporary following PAE and should resolve within a few weeks as the prostate adjusts.
Although the risks are low, there are a few rare side effects associated with prostate artery embolization:
Infection
Following PAE, there is also a risk of infection which can occur at the procedural site or in the urinary tract. Your doctor will give you advice on keeping the site clean to prevent complications.
Non-target embolization
There is a sight risk of the particles used in the procedure traveling to surrounding tissues or organs and causing damage. Choosing a highly experienced interventional radiologist minimizes this risk.
Retrograde ejaculation (dry orgasm)
PAE causes retrograde ejaculation in some patients, which is when the seminal fluid is ejected into the bladder rather than departing the body through the urethra. While this rare reaction does occur after PAE, it occurs significantly less frequently with PAE than with an invasive surgical procedure such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). Although there is no risk to health, it could affect your fertility.
Other potential risks
Other rare side effects including bladder injury, damage to blood vessels, and negative responses to anesthesia have been reported. However, our highly trained and experienced specialists at Mint STL can help mitigate these side effects and risks.
At Mint STL, we specialize in patient-centered care for prostate artery embolization and other minimally invasive procedures. Our expert interventional radiologists have extensive experience and use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure the highest standard of care. From your initial consultation to post-procedure follow-up, we are committed to making your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
While complications from PAE are rare, you should contact your doctor if you experience:
If you're keen to know more about prostate artery embolization or want to discuss whether this procedure is right for you, contact Mint STL. Our team is here to guide you through your treatment options and help you make the best choice for your health.
Call us today or schedule an appointment online to take the first step toward better prostate health.
