I know how difficult it can be to get to know a doctor online. The web is a very impersonal place, so I highly encourage anyone interested in medical advice to make an appointment with me. Meeting in person is the best way to make sure we find the treatment that is right for you, but Telemedicine visits are also possible, especially for follow-up appointments.
Regardless, hearing from some of my past patients may help you make an informed decision. This page provides a collection of resources to hear about some of the work I have done in the past, including newspaper articles and patient reviews. If you would like to provide comments of your own, please email me or call today!
Regardless, hearing from some of my past patients may help you make an informed decision. This page provides a collection of resources to hear about some of the work I have done in the past, including newspaper articles and patient reviews. If you would like to provide comments of your own, please email me or call today!
Patient Interview
Featured Video from Yale Medicine
Comments from Patients on Healthgrades
"Dr. Ayyagari performed a very successful PAE (prostatic arterial embolization) procedure for me. All went well, and I'm happy with the results. Dr. Ayyagari was clear and straight-forward in my pre-surgery consultation, and it worked out as he said it would. I'm glad that I learned about the existence of the PAE option, and Dr. Ayyagari is the only highly experienced provider in this area."
- Jun 26, 2020
"It was a great experience being in the hands of Dr. Ayyagari. Starting from my first appearance in his office I felt very secure. He knows how to prepare a patient for surgery to have him relaxed. The whole surgery experience is a true example of the doctor's professionalism. His team is a bonded crew of professionals who understand each other completely and compliments their leader. I would certainly recommend Dr. Ayyagari and his team who is planning to do a PAE surgery."
- May 20, 2020
"I had the PAE procedure done to relieve a urinary blockage of several weeks."
- May 19, 2020
"My visit was in the form of a phone call. It was a follow up re: a procedure I had done some time ago and we discussed how I was doing and discussed a possible future follow up involving a possible hospital visit."
- May 18, 2020
"I saw Dr. Ayyagari for a consultation after having two bouts within one month requiring catheterization in order to void. My daughter and I quickly became very comfortable with Dr. Ayyagari because he gave us the knowledge we required to make a decision, which we expected, but also showed compassion and understanding absent in many of today’s interactions. The procedure was performed a few weeks later and went very smoothly. The first night, however, was very uncomfortable (but I was expecting that). I took one of the Ibuprofen tablets prescribed and was able to return to sleep. From that point on, my only issue was severe spasms which required another med. The spasms subsided within two weeks and I have not experienced any discomfort since. Two weeks after the procedure I returned to my urologist for a void test. My catheter was removed and, viola, I was able to void. It’s 3 months post procedure and I am symptom free. I could not be happier with the PAE and Dr. Ayyagari’s care."
- May 17, 2020
"Very pleased with Dr. A's care and team."
- May 16, 2020
"Dr. Ayyagari performed a PAE procedure on me last November. I had been suffering with an enlarged prostate with all its symptoms for more than 20 years. Conventional Urologists were unable to help my condition and I was heading toward surgical removal of my non-cancerous prostate. . I discovered Dr. A and PAE by searching the literature and follow-up references from doctors I know at Yale. I made an appointment directly with Dr. A’s office at Yale through Nathan who manages his schedule. During my initial interview with Dr. A. I found him to be concerned, mostly listening, asking questions and clearly competent about the PAE procedure which he described with patience and detail. I agreed to the PAE procedure and Nathan set up the necessary tests and scheduled the procedure. The procedure, as described , was painless and quickly done by Dr. A and his competent team. I was released the same day and since have experienced complete relief of my BPH symptoms. Thank you, Team Dr. A."
- May 15, 2020
"My PAE procedure dramatically improved my life. It was a relatively minor procedure. My ability to urinate was normal after 2 weeks. Dr. Ayyagari was great to work with, informative and competent."
- May 15, 2020
"Dr. Ayyagari interviewed me as a candidate patient for a prostatic embolization. He provided a thorough explanation of the process, and felt that it could help me. I had an extremely large prostate, and my urologist had previously performed a TURP. Relief from the TURP lasted only a few years, and the next step would have been a major operation. I was semi-conscious during the embolization and it went well. He exhibited a great deal of skill performing this procedure. After a relatively short recovery period my urinary problems diminished, and eventually went away completely. It is now about 5 years and I can sleep thru the night, and “piss like a stallion”. Prior to, during the procedure, and following up, Dr. Ayyagari’s care and concern was outstanding. Probably the best medical care that I have ever received."
- May 15, 2020
"Dr. A explained things well and when I had a complication of the procedure he was completely on top of things. I felt very comfortable in his care and I am a doctor."
- May 15, 2020
"Enlarged prostate closed urinary tract down. Dr. Ayyagari’s procedure shrunk the prostate and in that regard I am back to where I was 30 years ago. I highly recommend him and am grateful to him."
- May 15, 2020
"Dr. Ayyagari is superb in every respect. He is very knowledgeable, available, courteous and always professional. He helped me greatly with my condition."
- May 15, 2020
"Dr. Ayyagari did a great job for me with a prostate arterial embolization -- reducing the size of the prostate by cutting off its blood supply, and thereby significantly reducing my BPH symptoms. I was under a mild sedative during the procedure and emerged feeling fine. Everything was done through a blood vessel, no cutting involved. No pain after the procedure, no catheter, just a few antibiotics to take. That night I felt good enough to have KFC, and did."
- May 15, 2020
"My first visit was very reassuring. Dr. Ayyagari explained my condition, and the expected course of treatment completely, thoroughly, and in easy to understand terms. The procedure went as expected, and after some initial discomfort, my recovery went pretty and smoothly. This procedure gave me life back, and I would recommend this procedure to any man suffering from BPH."
- May 15, 2020
"Dr. Ayyagari is superb in every respect. He is very knowledgeable, available, courteous and always professional. He helped me greatly with my condition."
- May 15, 2020
"I went in for PAE. Dr. A and his staff were very professional. Dr. A explained everything which made me very comfortable. After the surgery he checked in with me and made sure I could reach out to him if I need to. I highly recommend Dr. Ayyagari and his staff."
- May 15, 2020
"This was a phone call conversation; a substitute for my one-year follow-up appointment after a procedure performed by Dr. Ayyagari. I continue to be very pleased with the information I receive from Dr. Ayyagari as well as the care. It has always been easy to engage in conversation with him regarding any health questions or concerns that I have had."
- May 09, 2020
"I am a very satisfied male patient age 82. Dr. Ayyagari performed PAE procedure 5 months ago, in November 2019. Since I was in very good health, he was willing to take a chance on me. I was surprised that the procedure took far longer than I expected. I was in the OR for 6 hours, as I recall. My post-recovery was about on par for a week, when I suddenly was unable to urinate. I was in agony. I rushed to Yale NH ER and had a Foley catheter installed, and I remained catheterized for 8 days. I was put on a second powerful antibiotic, different from the Cipro required as PAE prep. Dr. Ayyagari was very sympathetic, and was available to handle questions and concerns. After catheter removal, my prostate problems gradually diminished, but I had many weeks of constipation. That, too, disappeared by month 4, and I now consider myself completely "cured". Urinary problems are minimal, and I am very pleased with the outcome and with Dr. Ayyagari's treatment."
- May 09, 2020
"Excellent results. Dr. Ayyagari explained everything and helped me feel very comfortable with the procedure."
- May 08, 2020
"The PAE surgery itself was painless. The seven to ten days recovery time for me was a little uncomfortable but was expected. I liked the fact that doctors and staff at Yale called everyday to check my progress and needs. The decision to have doctor Ayyagari perform this procedure was the correct one. He and his staff at Yale are knowledgeable, professional and caring. No more worry where to find the next restroom when I'm on the road."
- May 08, 2020
"Solves the problem. Compassionate, knowledgeable, patient. This is the doctor to go to first, and therefore last. He’s also a nice guy."
- May 07, 2020
"I highly recommend the PAE procedure performed by Dr. Ayyagari. . For me there were no side effects and quick and dramatic improvement including eliminating the kidney pain I was experiencing after urinating. Dr. Ayyagari is experienced and knowledgeable with this procedure which is also an important consideration."
- May 06, 2020
"Very happy with the results of my process."
- May 06, 2020
"Dr. Ayyagari explained procedure clearly as well as expectations. He has delivered a positive outcome. Much better than the failed surgery I had with a TURP."
- May 02, 2020
"I reside in Bergen County N.J. After years of visiting at least four major hospitals in NYC and three in NJ seeking treatment for an enlarged prostate. Finding none of the options offered acceptable. I learned of the PAE procedure offered at Yale Medicine and performed by Dr. Ayyagari. I called, made an appointment and drove almost two hours to consult with Dr. Ayyagari. After the consultation, I decided to have the procedure done and I am very happy with the result. I would highly recommend Dr. Ayyagari to anyone seeking to address a prostate issue while maintaining quality of life."
- Aug 08, 2019
"I had worsening urinary problems for the last several years and was recommended for a PEA consultation from my Urologist. This was the best decision I've ever made. The procedure has greatly improved my quality of life with no side effects. Dr. A and staff were very professional and answered all questions thoroughly regarding the procedure. I highly recommend Dr. A for this procedure."
- Jan 12, 2019
"Procedure was fine!"
- Jul 16, 2018
"Wonderful solution to a common and serious problem. Dr. Ayyagari improved my life tremendously by allowing the removal of the catheter and reduce the probability of infection."
- Jun 22, 2018
"My urologist referred me to Dr. Ayyagari after my last prostate infection which was fairly severe, about a year ago. The procedure was definitely worth having done. My urine flow is excellent and frequency is amazingly much less. For me, quality of life is greatly improved. Would I have the procedure done again if ever needed it?...yes!!! However, so far that is not even remotely necessary. I am very thankful for Dr. Ayyagari's expertise in this field."
- Jun 21, 2018
"I suffered with prostate issues for min. of 5 yrs. After two TURPs in two years my symptoms worsened. I often bled profusely and had excruciating pain with frequent urination. It was hell. Within 60 after the embolization procedure my urinary process is nearly normal - can hold 450 ml and empty to 45 ml sans pain or blood and with control. I still have an enlarged prostate but I can live with it, now."
- Jun 21, 2018
"Dr. Ayyagari performed a prostate embolization 6 months ago. I had been on numerous medications for over a decade. My symptoms were severe and I had a poor quality of life. The surgery has completely changed my condition and I am back to leading a normal life. I don't have to plan my activities around where a bathroom is located."
- Jun 21, 2018
"Dr. Ayyagari & his staff are Awesome!! Nathan & nurse Vonetta are super thorough and professional..."
- Jun 21, 2018
"Dr. Ayyagari has what everyone would want in a physician. The personality and bedside manor that establishes an immediate connection assuring the sincerity ,commitment and trust one might hope for. That combined with the obvious knowledge and ability creates an environment where one feels comfortable and confident that the end result will be extremely positive. For me it was life changing and I will forever be grateful."
- Jun 20, 2018
"The procedure was done to help me out with my hopes are very high and so far to three months after the procedure I'm quite satisfied it's much easier to be outside and taking trips not to worry that you have to go to the men's room every 5 minutes. After the 10 days you begin to feel pretty good and it stays with you so far. I recommend you guys to take a shot of it."
- Jun 20, 2018
"My experience with this provider has been excellent. He is competent, pleasant and not in a rush. I have recommended a few patients. To schedule an appointment, you have to wait for a call back. I personally believe you should be able to talk to someone when you call."
- Jun 20, 2018
"Dr. Ayyagari did a superb job with my prostate arterial embolization (PAE). It completely cured my prostate BPH in just a week, with no pain during or after the procedure. Patients sometimes have to wait for a half-hour or so to see Dr. Ayyagari, but when you meet him you see why: he is totally unrushed, listens carefully and explains everything thoroughly. He also gives patients his cell number so if they have any problems after procedures (I had none) they can reach him directly."
- Jun 09, 2018
"Dr. Ayyagari placed an IVC filter in my abdomen 5 years ago. It probably took him 90 seconds to perform the task, he is like the song that came out in 1984 by Sade - "Smooth Operator". This week I visited him to see if he could remove my filter. Unfortunately, my vena cava has collapsed making it unnecessary to remove the IVC filter. My wife visited a doctor upstate and he would not give her any explanations. What a difference I had, Dr. Ayyagari spent so much time w/ explanations, he is the best."
- Mar 17, 2018
"After three years of suffering, with trips to the bathroom every 50 minutes nightly, I discovered Dr. Ayyagari, and his Prostate Artery Embolization. I had the procedure Aug. 4, 2017 and the results have been amazing. It's great to be back among the living. I cannot thank Dr. Ayyagari enough, and now when I see him, I refer to him as "my hero". Anyone who has this problem, and medication is not working, I would strongly recommend they consider this procedure."
- Jan 05, 2018
"You will not be disappointed in Dr. Ayyagari or this relatively new procedure for benign hyperplasia that reduces the size of the prostate without surgery. Two years following my procedures my prostrate is less than 1/3 the size and urination is no longer a problem. Dr. Ayyagari is a kind and thoughtful practitioner who instills confidence. Try embolization first. You can always cut later."
- Oct 06, 2017
"I found him very informative about my situation. He answered all my questions, in detail. I would definitely recommend him to anyone needing his special expertise. Made me feel very comfortable undergoing the procedure."
- Aug 28, 2017
"Dr. Ayyagari is an extremely gifted, talented and caring physician. He treated me for an enlarged prostate with the prostate embolization procedure. I experienced a splendid and miraculous result. Within hours after I returned home from the procedure, I noticed very positive results. My urination went from 3/4 times a night to once and sometimes none. The half full, half empty symptom disappeared completely and stream went from weak to strong. None of the possible adverse effects occurred."
- Aug 10, 2017
"My prostate operation is showing positive results including a much-improved sex life; i.e., Mr. Midnight has come to life again! The operation was in January and now it is May, it took a good month before I started seeing results. Urination is much steadier; I can make it through the night with only one trip to the head."
- May 13, 2017
"My experience with Dr. Ayyagari was one of comfort, care, respect, and welcome. His down to earth, clear, clean explanations were more than what I expected. He brings a freshness of presence into the room which is uplifting. He comes across with confidence, knowledgeableness, and instills reassurance. He is not superior, intrusive, overbearing or distant."
- May 09, 2017
"Very knowledgeable & easy to talk to. He puts everything into a understandable perspective. And to top it off he is a nice guy."
- May 05, 2017
"Sought Dr. Ayyagari out for BPH problems asking about a prostate embolization procedure having constant urgency and frequency issues. He performed the procedure about a year ago. Urgency and frequency issues are gone. Nocturnal visits to the bathroom are maybe once a night, sometimes none. I looked at many options like Green Laser procedure and other invasive procedures. This was the best option for me and would highly recommend it."
- May 04, 2017
"I can truly say that all went well and the results of my procedure was awesome."
- Apr 15, 2017
"I saw Dr. Ayyagari to have a Prostate Artery Embolization. I was concerned about any complication (although rare) with a transurethral resection. Dr. Ayyagari was very professional and I felt quite confident in his abilities. The procedure was not painful but probably because of my arterial calcifications, I needed to have second procedure. The embolization has worked and I have discontinued all medications. Throughout Dr. Ayyagari was one would expect from a highly qualified caring physician."
- Mar 29, 2017
"I went to Dr. R. Ayyagari for a PAE - a state of the art procedure to address BPH. He was patient and thorough in explaining what the PAE entailed. He successfully advocated for me with my insurance company. On the day of the operation, I felt in the hands of an extremely competent and sensitive medical team. Dr. RA's post-operation follow-up was immediate and sustained through my recovery period. My life has been transformed thanks to Dr. Ayyagari expert care and I feel most fortunate."
- Mar 28, 2017
Dr. Ayyagari in the Media
- Read about my work and patient stories in the New Haven Register.
- Listen to my guest appearance on the Yale Cancer Answers podcast.
- Watch a live case being performed here, courtesy of JOMI.