Prostate Artery Embolization Specialist

What is Prostate Artery Embolization?

Prostate artery embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that treats benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also called prostate enlargement. The experienced South Florida Vascular Associates team performs prostate artery embolization on-site at the cutting-edge endovascular surgery suite. It’s a same-day procedure so you can return home afterwards.

When might I need Prostate Artery Embolization?

You might need prostate artery embolization if BPH causes troublesome symptoms such as: 

• Increased urinary frequency
• Increased urinary urgency
• Weak urine stream
• Urine dribbling after you’ve already urinated
• Difficulty fully emptying your bladder 
• Discomfort during urination

Before scheduling a prostate artery embolization, you’ll need a full workup, such as urinalysis, digital rectal exam, prostate gland imaging, and possibly a test to rule out prostate cancer to make sure this procedure is right for you.

How does Prostate Artery Embolization work?

During the procedure, the team creates a tiny incision in your groin. They use a specialized type of X-ray guidance to locate the specific blood vessels that deliver blood to your prostate gland. 

Then, they inject many microscopic plastic beads to block part of the blood supplying your prostate gland. The team then moves to the other side of your body to treat the blood vessels supplying that part of your prostate gland. They often use the same incision to treat both halves of your prostate gland.

What are the advantages of Prostate Artery Embolization?

Prostate artery embolization can dramatically relieve the troublesome symptoms of BPH. The procedure requires just a tiny groin incision and only intravenous sedation — a sharp contrast to surgeries that typically require large incisions, general anesthesia, and significant downtime. 

Some BPH treatments, like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), carry an increased risk of sexual side-effects like erectile dysfunction. Prostate artery embolization has less side-effects and a lower risk of complications than TURP.  Some men may even experience improved sexual function once prostate artery embolization takes full effect.

How long does it take for Prostate Artery Embolization to work?

Prostate artery embolization results usually take a couple of weeks to appear, and then the symptoms continue to improve over the next three or four months as the prostate steadily shrinks. The procedure won’t completely eliminate your prostate gland; it merely helps it return to a healthier size.

For help with frustrating BPH symptoms without the hospital stay, call South Florida Vascular Associates or click on the provided scheduling link now.