What Is Prostate Embolization? A Guide to PAE for Enlarged Prostate (BPH)

An enlarged prostate, medically known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition that affects many men as they get older. It can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms, including frequent urination, difficulty starting urination, weak urine flow, and waking up multiple times during the night to use the bathroom. These symptoms can interfere with daily activities, sleep, and overall quality of life.

For men experiencing BPH, understanding available treatment options is an important step toward making informed healthcare decisions. Prostate embolization, specifically Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE), is a minimally invasive procedure designed for treating symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate.

At California Prostate Center, the focus is specifically on PAE for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). This guide explains what the procedure involves, common symptoms of BPH, and what patients should know before considering treatment.

What Is Prostate Embolization?

Prostate embolization is commonly used to describe a minimally invasive procedure called Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE). It is an option for men experiencing urinary symptoms caused by Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH).

Unlike traditional surgical approaches, PAE is performed using a small catheter and specialized medical imaging. During the procedure, tiny particles are delivered through the catheter as part of the treatment process.

The purpose of PAE is to help reduce the size of an enlarged prostate and improve urinary symptoms associated with BPH.

It is important to understand that PAE at California Prostate Center is specifically offered for BPH. It is not presented as a treatment for prostate cancer or other prostate conditions.

What Is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, or BPH, refers to the noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder and surrounding part of the urethra.

As the prostate becomes enlarged, it can put pressure on the urethra and make urination more difficult.

BPH is more common among older men, although the severity of symptoms can vary from person to person. Some men experience mild discomfort, while others may find that urinary symptoms significantly affect their everyday routines.

Recognizing these symptoms can help men seek an appropriate medical evaluation.

Common Symptoms of an Enlarged Prostate

BPH can cause several urinary symptoms that may become more noticeable over time. Common signs include:

• Frequent urination: Needing to urinate more often throughout the day.
• Nighttime urination: Waking up repeatedly during the night to use the bathroom.
• Weak urine stream: Experiencing a slower or weaker stream when urinating.
• Difficulty starting urination: Taking longer than usual to begin passing urine.
• Incomplete bladder emptying: Feeling that the bladder has not completely emptied after urination.
• Urgency: Experiencing a sudden and difficult-to-control need to urinate.

Not every man with BPH experiences all these symptoms. A proper medical evaluation can help determine whether an enlarged prostate is responsible for the symptoms.

How Does Prostatic Artery Embolization Work?

Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure performed by a specially trained physician.

The procedure generally involves the following steps:

1. Initial Medical Evaluation