Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (Enlarged Prostate)

Also known as “enlarged prostate,” benign prostatic hyperplasia—or BPH for short—occurs as men age. The prostate gland grows, and, in some cases, can put pressure on the bladder or the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder and through the penis). This can cause life-impacting symptoms such as frequent urination (especially at night), difficulty urinating, or even sexual dysfunction.

While there are several treatment options for BPH, Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is a non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment that may provide a better alternative for you than surgery or other procedures. Requiring no more than a prick in the skin (similar to a blood draw), a doctor places tiny beads within the prostate arteries to slow the flow of blood to the gland. The prostate then shrinks, and symptoms are relieved. Our physicians at Memphis Vascular Center in Memphis, TN, are experts in this procedure.

In numerous clinical studies, PAE is shown to be effective in reducing BPH symptoms without the risks of surgery. Unlike other less invasive procedures like UroLift®, it may improve sexual function. Most patients experience significant urinary symptom improvement and a better quality of life.

PAE is a long-lasting therapy designed to last many years, evidence up to at least 15. However the exact duration depends on each person’s condition and how they respond to the treatment. If necessary, the procedure can be repeated in the future.

PAE is covered by most private insurance and Medicare. Please contact your insurance provider to see if it’s included in your plan. If needed, we can help you by verifying coverage. If it isn’t covered, we offer financing options.

A specially trained doctor called an interventional radiologist uses x-ray imaging to guide a tiny catheter into the arteries that supply blood to the prostate. Tiny particles are then injected to partially block blood flow, causing the prostate to shrink and symptoms to improve.

Yes! PAE is a safe procedure with a low risk of complications, and it is an excellent alternative to surgery. Our doctors will discuss all the potential risks with you and answer any questions you may have during your consultation. Side effects are mild and can include mild temporary pain, bruising, or swelling at the catheter site.

You may be eligible for PAE if you have moderate to severe BPH symptoms and have not responded to conventional therapy like medication. Our clinical team will review your medical history and imaging test results to present your options and help you to make an informed decision.

Patients with severe peripheral artery disease (PAD) or who have certain infections or allergies may not be a candidate for PAE.

A surgery called transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is the most commonly recommended treatment for BPH. PAE offers several benefits over TURP, it is less invasive, requires no general anesthesia or hospitalization, and is NOT performed through the penis and urethra and therefore more comfortable. Unlike surgery, you can return home and resume normal activities right after your PAE procedure. Also, there are many complications and potential side effects after TURP surgery which are virtually nonexistent with PAE.

While UroLift can be effective at eliminating or reducing urination symptoms, it has not been shown to improve/restore sexual function as PAE has. Also, UroLift does not shrink the prostate gland; it uses special metal clips to pull the prostate away from the bladder and urethra. As a result, it does not treat the underlying condition which is the growing prostate gland.