Prostatic Artery Embolisation (PAE)
A Non-Surgical Solution for Enlarged Prostate Symptoms
- As men age, an enlarged prostate — medically known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — becomes increasingly common. This condition can lead to frequent urination, interrupted sleep, a weak urinary stream, or difficulty emptying the bladder fully. Many men are hesitant to undergo prostate surgery due to concerns about side effects, recovery, or the impact on sexual health. Prostatic Artery Embolisation (PAE) is a minimally invasive, non-surgical alternative that can provide lasting relief without hospital admission or general anaesthesia.
- PAE works by selectively blocking the blood supply to the enlarged portions of the prostate. During the procedure, a thin catheter is inserted through a small puncture in the groin or wrist. Using advanced imaging, the catheter is guided into the arteries that feed the prostate. Tiny particles are then released to reduce blood flow, causing the gland to shrink over time and ease pressure on the urinary tract.
- This procedure is particularly helpful for men who are not candidates for traditional surgery, have medical conditions that increase surgical risk, or simply prefer a less invasive option. PAE is performed under local anaesthesia with conscious sedation, and most patients return home the same day. There are no incisions, no urinary catheter in most cases, and a significantly shorter recovery time compared to surgery.
- Improvement in urinary symptoms is often noticed within the first few weeks, with continued progress in the following months. Importantly, PAE does not involve removal of the prostate or any surgical cutting, and it generally preserves sexual function, which is a key concern for many patients.
- If you’ve been advised to undergo prostate surgery or are unhappy with ongoing medications, Prostatic Artery Embolisation may be a safer, simpler path forward. Dr. Praveen will evaluate your condition and imaging to help you decide if this non-surgical approach is right for you.
- As men age, an enlarged prostate — medically known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — becomes increasingly common. This condition can lead to frequent urination, interrupted sleep, a weak urinary stream, or difficulty emptying the bladder fully. Many men are hesitant to undergo prostate surgery due to concerns about side effects, recovery, or the impact on sexual health. Prostatic Artery Embolisation (PAE) is a minimally invasive, non-surgical alternative that can provide lasting relief without hospital admission or general anaesthesia.
- PAE works by selectively blocking the blood supply to the enlarged portions of the prostate. During the procedure, a thin catheter is inserted through a small puncture in the groin or wrist. Using advanced imaging, the catheter is guided into the arteries that feed the prostate. Tiny particles are then released to reduce blood flow, causing the gland to shrink over time and ease pressure on the urinary tract.
- This procedure is particularly helpful for men who are not candidates for traditional surgery, have medical conditions that increase surgical risk, or simply prefer a less invasive option. PAE is performed under local anaesthesia with conscious sedation, and most patients return home the same day. There are no incisions, no urinary catheter in most cases, and a significantly shorter recovery time compared to surgery.
- Improvement in urinary symptoms is often noticed within the first few weeks, with continued progress in the following months. Importantly, PAE does not involve removal of the prostate or any surgical cutting, and it generally preserves sexual function, which is a key concern for many patients.
- If you’ve been advised to undergo prostate surgery or are unhappy with ongoing medications, Prostatic Artery Embolisation may be a safer, simpler path forward. Dr. Praveen will evaluate your condition and imaging to help you decide if this non-surgical approach is right for you.