Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive treatment designed to reduce symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). By reducing blood flow to the prostate, PAE helps shrink the gland over time and improve urinary function. While it is an effective option for many men, understanding whether you are a good candidate is an important first step.
An enlarged prostate is a common condition as men age. Symptoms often develop gradually and can interfere with sleep, daily routines, and overall quality of life.
Many men begin with medications, but not everyone experiences lasting relief. For those looking to avoid surgery or long-term medication use, PAE offers a non-surgical alternative. At Colorado Advanced Endovascular (CAE), patients are carefully evaluated to determine whether this treatment is the right fit.
What Does PAE Treat?
PAE is used to treat symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate. As the prostate grows, it can press against the urethra and restrict urine flow. This leads to urinary symptoms that often worsen over time if not addressed.
Common Symptoms of BPH
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Weak or slow urine stream
- Difficulty starting urination
- Feeling that the bladder is not fully empty
- Sudden urgency to urinate
If these symptoms are affecting your daily life, it may be time to consider treatment options beyond medication.
Signs You May Be a Good Candidate for PAE
PAE is often recommended for men with moderate to severe symptoms who want a less invasive option.
You may be a strong candidate if you:
- Have been diagnosed with an enlarged prostate (BPH)
- Experience ongoing urinary symptoms that impact quality of life
- Have tried medications without enough relief
- Want to avoid or delay surgery such as TURP
- Prefer a minimally invasive outpatient procedure
- Are concerned about sexual side effects from surgery
- Have a larger prostate that may not respond to other treatments
Many patients choose PAE because it offers symptom relief while preserving normal function. Colorado Advanced Endovascular (CAE) focuses on identifying patients who are most likely to benefit from this approach.
Patients Who Often Benefit Most From PAE
Men with moderate to severe symptoms: If symptoms are disrupting sleep, work, or daily activities, PAE may provide meaningful improvement.
Men who want to avoid surgery: PAE is appealing for those who want to avoid anesthesia, hospital stays, and longer recovery.
Men concerned about sexual side effects: Compared to surgical treatments, PAE has a lower risk of erectile dysfunction and retrograde ejaculation.
Men with larger prostates: PAE is effective across a wide range of prostate sizes, including larger glands.
Who May Not Be a Candidate for PAE?
You may not be an ideal candidate if you:
- Have urinary symptoms caused by conditions other than BPH
- Have certain vascular conditions that limit access to the prostate arteries
- Have untreated prostate cancer or other complicating conditions
- Require urgent surgical treatment due to severe complications
How Doctors Determine If PAE Is Right for You
The evaluation process ensures that PAE is the right option. At Colorado Advanced Endovascular (CAE), your care team will:
- Review your symptoms and medical history
- Assess previous treatments and medication response
- Use imaging to evaluate prostate size and blood supply
- Confirm that BPH is the primary cause of symptoms
What to Expect If You Are a Candidate
If you are a good candidate for PAE, the procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting without surgery.
Key benefits include:
- No surgical incisions
- Same-day discharge
- Short recovery time
- Gradual improvement in urinary symptoms
- Preservation of sexual function in most cases
Most patients begin to notice improvement within a few weeks, with continued progress as the prostate shrinks.
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
Living with an enlarged prostate does not mean you have to accept ongoing discomfort or move straight to surgery. Prostate Artery Embolization offers a minimally invasive option that can improve symptoms and quality of life.
Colorado Advanced Endovascular (CAE) provides advanced, patient-focused care for men in Lakewood, Denver, and across the Front Range. If you are experiencing symptoms of BPH and want to explore your options, scheduling a consultation is the best next step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is a good candidate for Prostate Artery Embolization?
Men with moderate to severe urinary symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) who want to avoid surgery may be good candidates for PAE.
What symptoms can PAE help treat?
PAE may help improve frequent urination, weak urine stream, urgency, difficulty starting urination, and the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.
Is PAE a surgical procedure?
No. PAE is a minimally invasive, image-guided outpatient procedure that does not require surgical incisions or removal of the prostate.
Can PAE help me avoid prostate surgery?
For many men, PAE offers a non-surgical alternative that may reduce symptoms and delay or eliminate the need for procedures such as TURP.
Does PAE affect sexual function?
Compared to traditional surgical treatments, PAE has a lower risk of sexual side effects such as erectile dysfunction and retrograde ejaculation.
How long does it take to recover after PAE?
Most patients return home the same day and resume normal activities within a short period. Symptom improvement usually develops gradually over several weeks.
How do doctors determine if PAE is right for me?
Your care team will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, imaging results, and previous treatments to determine whether BPH is the primary cause of your urinary issues.
Is PAE effective for large prostates?
Yes. PAE is often effective for men with larger prostates who may not respond as well to other treatment options.