Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) otherwise known as an enlarged prostate. With no need for surgery, minimal recovery time and improved urinary symptoms, PAE has become an attractive option for many men. But while its benefits are widely advertised, you may be wondering about its drawbacks. What are the disadvantages of prostate artery embolization?
This article delves into the side effects and potential risks of PAE while reinforcing why, in the right circumstances, it remains a highly effective solution for BPH.
Prostate artery embolization involves shrinking an enlarged prostate by blocking the arteries delivering blood to the gland. This action causes the prostate to shrink in size and relieves urinary symptoms associated with BPH, including:
The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis by skilled interventional radiologists, eliminating the need for general anesthesia, surgical incisions and a hospital stay. Overall, PAE offers a faster, more comfortable recovery for most patients.
While PAE offers numerous benefits, it’s crucial to consider some limitations to make an informed decision. Here’s a closer look:
While PAE has an impressive success rate of around 80–85% in improving urinary symptoms this is slightly lower than conventional surgical options such as TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate), which has a success rate of about 90%, However, PAE is still highly effective for most men, and because of its minimally invasive nature, it’s often a preferred choice for those seeking less risk and downtime.
PAE reduces the size of the prostate but it doesn’t remove tissue like other surgeries. This means the results aren’t immediate and consequently, there’s a chance of symptoms gradually returning over time. That said, many patients enjoy long-lasting relief, and the need for additional treatments is relatively low, requiring 20% intervention in the first 5 years and 30-60% within 10 years, according to a cohort study of 1,072 patients treated with PAE over 10 years.
Following PAE treatment, patients may experience some of the following symptoms:
Bruising and discomfort in the groin area – This is a normal reaction to an incision comparable to when you receive a vaccination or have blood taken. Any discomfort can be relieved by over-the-counter painkillers.
Infection – Without adhering to the aftercare instructions given to you before leaving the clinic, the prostate and needle insertion sites may become infected. Infections often require medical intervention and without treatment, can produce adverse effects.
Bladder spasms – In some patients, their bladder contracts involuntarily which can cause an intense urge to visit the bathroom, some discomfort, and bladder leakage.
Blood in the urine, semen and stool – For a few days following the procedure, you may notice a small amount of blood. If bleeding persists or becomes heavier, you should contact your doctor immediately.
Post-PAE syndrome - This typically affects only a small percentage of patients and is characterized by nausea, pain and fatigue. It should resolve in a few days but may require further medical attention or medication.
These side effects are generally mild and temporary and resolve within days to weeks, making them manageable for most patients.
Severe complications are extremely rare and include:
Hopefully, this has answered the question of what are the disadvantages of prostate artery embolization and enabled you to see that the safety profile of PAE makes it a good option for men seeking non-surgical solutions.
Despite these potential side effects, PAE transforms the lives of many men with BPH. The fact that it’s a minimally invasive procedure with a short recovery time and can be made available to patients with significant health conditions, makes it a preferred alternative to surgery.
In addition, advances in procedural techniques and imaging technology, continue to minimize risks and improve outcomes.
Moreover, advancements in imaging technology and procedural techniques continue to improve outcomes and minimize risks, making PAE a solid and effective solution to BPH.
At Mint STL, we’re dedicated to providing personalized, expert care for prostate health. Our experienced interventional radiologists specialize in PAE and work closely with you to ensure the best possible outcomes. With a patient-first approach and access to the latest techniques, we’ll guide you in making an informed and confident decision.
While every treatment has to be carefully considered, PAE is a game changer for many men dealing with BPH. To learn more about whether it’s right for you, schedule a consultation with Mint STL today.
Contact us now and take the first step toward reclaiming your quality of life.
