What to Know About Prostate Artery Embolization for BPH
Artery embolization (AE) is one of the most advanced vascular treatments available. At South Florida Vascular Associates, we’re a leading provider of outpatient care for a wide variety of vascular and oncological concerns. Artery embolization is one of our best tools for thyroid nodules, allowing patients to avoid open surgery. Here’s what to know about this incredible treatment in Coconut Creek, Boynton Beach, and Plantation, FL.
If you’ve been living with urinary problems and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), you might be surprised to find that treatment is easier than you think. Prostate artery embolization is a groundbreaking, minimally invasive procedure that can relieve symptoms of BPH and help you live your best life again. Here’s what to know about this procedure and how our team at South Florida Vascular Associates can help you enjoy quick and easy treatment.
What is BPH?
BPH is a very common condition in older men. In fact, most men will experience symptoms of BPH in later life (age 60 and beyond). BPH is a condition where the prostate, the gland surrounding the urethra that sits just below the bladder, begins to expand, reducing the flow of urine. Despite being common, BPH can still cause disruption in daily life for many men.
What are the Symptoms of BPH?
Difficulty with urination is one of the primary symptoms of BPH. However, it can take many forms, such as:
- Weak urine stream
- Frequent urination (especially at night)
- Increased urinary urgency
- Discomfort while urinating
- Difficulty emptying the bladder
- Straining or pushing while urinating
What is Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)?
Prostate artery embolization is a procedure that shrinks the size of the prostate by blocking the blood vessels that supply specific areas of the prostate. By closing these blood vessels, nutrients no longer reach the targeted areas of prostate tissue, causing it to be removed by the body. Over time, the prostate shrinks back to its normal size. This, in turn, can provide relief from symptoms. The biggest benefit of PAE is that it requires only a small entry point in the groin, through which specialized tools can be inserted with X-ray guidance. It’s a cutting-edge and precise way to treat BPH with fewer side effects than traditional methods.
Does Prostate Artery Embolization Eliminate the Prostate?
PAE is intended to shrink the size of the prostate by targeting specific areas. It is not, for example, a prostatectomy. Other procedures for BPH require some removal of the prostate, which makes PAE unique. It utilizes carefully placed blocks in your cardiovascular system to shrink the gland naturally, resulting in fewer side effects than other options. After treatment, your prostate will still retain its normal function – you’ll simply have fewer symptoms than before.
Prostate Artery Embolization at South Florida Vascular Associates
At South Florida Vascular Associates, we offer cutting-edge treatments for a variety of health conditions. If you’re looking for a long-term, minimally-invasive solution to BPH, our team can help. Request a consultation today at our offices serving the greater Coconut Creek, Boynton Beach, and Plantation, FL areas.
Dr. Willian Julien
Dr. William Julien is a board-certified vascular interventional radiologist and the president of South Florida Vascular Associates. He specializes in minimally invasive procedures to treat conditions like PAD, BPH, uterine fibroids, varicose veins, and aortic aneurysms. Dr. Julien earned his medical degree from Washington University School of Medicine and completed his residency at the University of Minnesota Medical Center, followed by fellowship training at the Miami Cardiac and Vascular Institute. He is certified by the American Board of Radiology with a subspecialty in interventional radiology. Dr. Julien is a member of RSNA and the American Heart Association’s CVRI Council and serves on the Society of Interventional Radiology’s Practice Affairs Committee. He is involved in national device trials and speaks regularly at endovascular conferences. His outpatient endovascular suite is one of the first of its kind in the U.S., allowing patients to receive advanced care outside the hospital.
