Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia...The prostate gland sits like a doughnut around the urethra, which is the tube that drains urine from the bladder down and out through the penis. When the gland gets enlarged, a situation called Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), it pinches off the urethra, making urination difficult or even impossible. Symptoms can include a weak stream, incomplete emptying, frequent urination, leaking, and rushing to the bathroom. Bleeding in the urine can also result. Many men get excellent relief from well-proven medications that are on the market. But when medications aren't enough, patients can choose among various procedures to help improve their urination.
Normal Prostate Enlarged Prostate Blocking Urine
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Treatment Options...
Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE) is a new, minimally invasive procedure for men with urination problems due to enlarged prostate glands. The procedure is performed by an Interventional Radiologist, and is ideal for patients who are not good candidates for surgery, or for those who would like to try a less invasive treatment option. It is an outpatient non-surgical procedure that works well, has a very short recovery time, and has no long-term side effects. I am a leading expert in the PAE procedure, and I have done far more of these than anyone else in the northeastern United States.
Patients can also choose more standard surgical procedures performed by Urologists, such as the TURP (Transurethral Resection of Prostate). A TURP involves placement of a rigid metallic scope through the penis and up into the prostate gland, where a cauterization device is then used to scrape out the problematic prostate gland tissue. This procedure is effective and is the current standard of surgical therapy. However there is a long recovery time afterwards. Many patients experience problems with sexual function, bleeding, and significant pain. They may also develop problems with bladder control. |
PROSTATIC ARTERY EMBOLIZATION...
Procedure Details
Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE) is a less-invasive alternative to TURP. The procedure is done by placing a tiny tube into the arteries that feed the prostate gland, and shutting the blood flow down by injecting thousands of microscopic beads to clog the arteries up. Everything is done through a tiny quarter-inch hole in the skin. General anesthesia is not needed because the procedure is not painful. Most patients go home the same day with a small bandage, and have only a 4-5 days of recovery before returning to normal life. Over time, the prostate gland is starved of its blood supply, and it "shrivels up," like a grape shrinking into a raisin. The urethra opens up and urine flows more normally.
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What to Expect
There are usually 4-5 days of recovery, and then usually by the third or fourth week patients start urinating a lot better. Patients generally don't have any lasting negative side effects. Patients should understand that the gland shrinkage happens gradually over a few months. About 7 out of 8 patients have good results. For men who suffer with urinary catheters in place, about 3 out of 4 patients can get the catheters out for good. For many, the procedure can be life-changing. Patients who do not experience the full benefit can still undergo any of the other treatment options. In fact, the PAE procedure can help control bleeding if more invasive surgery is ever necessary!
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Results
The procedure is FDA approved and is paid for by Medicare. Although PAE does not yet have as a long a track record as surgical procedures like the TURP, many large-scale studies have proven that PAE is safe and effective, and this procedure has been done in the USA for several years with great results. In partnering with several prominent Urologists in southern Connecticut, I have done more of these procedures than anyone else in the northeastern United States. All patients who are considered for this procedure also get a full evaluation by a Urologist, so they can understand all the options and choose what is right for them.
Medicare covers PAE without issue. Most health insurance companies pay for this procedure if appropriate need can be demonstrated. We will make sure everything possible is done to make this procedure available to you. |