Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE) for Enlarged Prostate Relief

A minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment designed to relieve urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate (BPH). If frequent urination, weak urine flow, or nighttime bathroom trips are affecting your quality of life, PAE may provide lasting relief without surgery or extended recovery time.

✔  Minimally invasive (no surgery)
✔  Outpatient procedure
✔  Reduced urinary symptoms
✔  Lower risk of sexual side effects
✔  Faster recovery than surgery

How it works

Tiny particles are used to reduce blood flow to the enlarged prostate, helping it shrink and relieve 
urinary symptoms.

The Goal

The goal of PAE is to reduce prostate size, relieve pressure on the urethra, and improve bladder emptying.

 

An Alternative

PAE can be an effective alternative for patients who want to avoid surgery or are not candidates for surgical treatment.

What Causes BPH?

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common, non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that becomes more common with age. As the prostate enlarges, it can place pressure on the urethra and interfere with normal urinary flow.

Common symptoms include:

  • Frequent urination
  • Weak urine stream
  • Difficulty starting urination
  • Dribbling after urination
  • Incomplete bladder emptying
  • Nighttime urination
  • Urgency or incontinence

How Does PAE Work?

During the procedure, a small catheter is guided through an artery in the wrist or upper thigh and carefully advanced to the arteries supplying the prostate. Tiny embolic particles are then delivered to reduce blood flow to the enlarged prostate tissue.

As blood flow decreases, the prostate gradually shrinks, reducing pressure on the urethra and improving urinary symptoms.

PAE helps:

  • Improve urine flow
  • Reduce urgency and frequency
  • Improve bladder emptying
  • Reduce nighttime bathroom trips
  • Avoid surgery

Is PAE Right for You?

You may be a candidate if you:

  • Have urinary symptoms caused by BPH
  • Have not found relief with medication
  • Want to avoid surgery
  • Are not a candidate for surgical treatment
  • Want lower risk of sexual side effects

Patient Story: A Life-changing Procedure

At 67, Robert spent long hours on the road as a truck driver for FedEx Ground. Over time, he began experiencing frustrating urinary symptoms — frequent trips to the bathroom, a weak urinary stream, and the feeling that he could never empty his bladder.

“Honestly, I thought it was just part of getting older,” Robert said.

After speaking with his doctor, Robert was referred to Dr. Koppula to learn more about Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE), a minimally invasive treatment option for enlarged prostate symptoms.

“I researched the procedure and came in for a consultation,” Robert explained. “After talking with Dr. Koppula, I felt comfortable moving forward.”

Robert underwent the outpatient procedure and was surprised by how easy the recovery was.
“The procedure was painless,” he shared. “I rested the first day, but I really had no pain or discomfort afterward.”

Even more surprising was how quickly he noticed results.

“I didn’t expect my symptoms to resolve so fast. About 3 to 4 weeks later, things had significantly improved. I no longer had that urgent push to run to the bathroom.”

As the weeks continued, Robert noticed steady improvement.

“The frequency gradually went away. I had a strong stream again and was able to completely empty my bladder. “It just kept getting better after those first few weeks.”

For someone who spends hours driving, the improvement made a major difference in daily life. “It really has worked,” Robert said. “I drove 5 and a half hours and didn’t have to stop once.”

Ready to Find Relief from Enlarged Prostate Symptoms?

Take the next step toward relief. Our interventional radiology team will evaluate your symptoms and determine whether Prostatic Artery Embolization is the right treatment option for you.

Our Radiologists specialize in PAE

Rohit Koppula, MD

"I had an outstanding experience at Winchester Radiology with Dr. Kia, Dr. Arastu, and their incredible team."

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"Amazing staff! Wonderful experience from signing in at the front desk to the discharge from procedure. Very caring group of people."

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"I found the receptionist to be friendly and courteous, a very clean space, was taken back within 5 minutes of arrival, staff was very friendly and courteous, the Dr was very thorough and answered our questions. I give it 5 stars!"

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