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Prostate Artery Embolization: A Breakthrough in BPH Treatment

Oct 17, 2024
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Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is an innovative procedure for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is minimally invasive, has a shorter recovery time, and has a reduced risk of complications like sexual dysfunction. Unlike traditional surgeries, PAE requires only local anesthesia and allows you to return more quickly to daily activities with fewer side effects.

As men age—starting in their 40s or 50s—they may begin having difficulty with urination and notice symptoms such as having to urinate frequently, a weak urine flow, or difficulty with starting urination. These symptoms can be bothersome and, in many cases, may stem from a natural enlargement of the prostate gland, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This enlargement is non-cancerous and not life-threatening, but it can significantly impact one’s quality of life.

Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a newer treatment for BPH that has been gaining in popularity in recent years. Because it is minimally invasive, it’s an attractive option for men looking for a quicker recovery and fewer side effects, especially a reduced risk of sexual dysfunction. PAE in Oklahoma is available exclusively from CardioVascular Health Clinic performed by Dr. Blake Parsons, one of a select few physicians from around the country spearheading this breakthrough procedure.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and Traditional Treatments

Symptoms of BPH include:

  • Difficulty urinating
  • Frequent urination
  • A weak urine stream
  • Inability to completely empty the bladder

The severity of these symptoms can range from a mild inconvenience to substantial interference with daily life, from sleep disruptions to social embarrassment and anxiety. 

Treatment options for BPH have traditionally included medications and advice about lifestyle changes, as well as surgical options for more severe cases. While these treatments are generally successful, patients may have varying degrees of satisfaction because they can often come with a range of side effects and/or less-than-optimal outcomes.

Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE): An Innovative Treatment Option for BPH

Beginning in the early 2000s, doctors began using prostate artery embolization (PAE) as a novel treatment for shrinking enlarged prostates. By 2013, controlled studies were underway to compare the effectiveness of PAE with traditional surgeries, concluding that PAE is a safe and effective treatment with considerably fewer side effects than invasive surgical treatments for BPH. Prostate artery embolization became FDA approved in 2018.

The prostate gland is located beneath the bladder and surrounds the urethra. As it enlarges, it squeezes the urethra leading to urinary problems. PAE helps reduce the size of the prostate to relieve the symptoms it causes.

During a PAE procedure, the doctor inserts a small catheter into an artery in your upper thigh and guides it to the blood vessels that provide blood to the prostate. Next, tiny particles are injected through the catheter to reduce the blood flow which causes the prostate to shrink. As the prostate gets smaller, the pressure on the urethra is reduced and the flow of urine and other urinary symptoms are improved. 

The Advantages of Prostate Artery Embolization for Treating BPH

Traditional surgical techniques carry the risk of damaging the nerves and muscles surrounding the prostate and bladder, leading to additional problems with urination or sexual problems. Since PAE uses particles injected through a catheter, it does not involve cutting or removing prostate tissue. Because of its non-invasive nature, PAE greatly reduces the risk of these unwanted outcomes that come with traditional surgery.

PAE has several advantages over other surgical treatments, including:

  • Minimally invasive: PAE is performed under local anesthesia and no large incisions or major surgery are required.
  • Short recovery time: Because PAE is minimally invasive, it is performed as an outpatient procedure. Most patients are able to go home the same day and quickly return to normal activities after a short recovery time.
  • Reduced risk of sexual impairment: The risk of side effects such as retrograde ejaculation and erectile dysfunction is greatly reduced as compared to traditional surgery.
  • Minimal blood loss: Traditional surgery involves larger incisions and more blood loss. PAE involves inserting a catheter through a single, small incision that results in little blood loss.
  • Fewer complications: PAE has fewer complications with a reduced risk of infection and urinary incontinence.
  • Effective symptom relief: PAE begins providing relief from symptoms between one to two months after the procedure. By three months the prostate has shrunk considerably, relieving BPH symptoms like frequent urination, urinary retention, and difficulty with urinating.
  • An alternative for high-risk patients: PAE is a suitable alternative for patients who are unable to undergo traditional surgery, or who are considered high-risk, because of health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.

PAE has a strong success rate as a treatment for BPH. Over 90% of men see significant improvement in their symptoms and studies are now showing that these results can last longer. One recent study followed 600 men for six years after PAE. It revealed that after three years, over 80% of men still showed improvements, and at six years, over 75% of men reported no urinary incontinence or sexual impairment. 

The PAE Procedure 

Since PAE is minimally invasive, it makes effective BPH treatment more available to a wider range of men. An ideal candidate is any man diagnosed with BPH who experiences the troublesome and inconvenient symptoms associated with it. Men may prefer PAE because of its shorter recovery time and reduced risk of side effects and sexual dysfunction.

Prostate artery embolization is performed by an interventional radiologist, such as CardioVascular Health Clinic expert Dr. Blake Parsons

From pre- to post-procedure, the following is a detailed overview of what you can expect as part of the PAE treatment:

  1. Pre-Procedure Preparation

Before your procedure, you’ll have a thorough medical evaluation which includes imaging tests like an MRI or CT angiography to help map the arteries supplying blood to the prostate.

  1. Catheter Insertion

At the start of the PAE procedure, you’ll receive local sedation, either at the groin (femoral artery) or wrist (radial artery), where the catheter will be inserted. The physician will make a small incision and insert a thin, flexible catheter.

Using fluoroscopy, which is like an X-ray video showing the body in real time, the catheter is carefully guided to the arteries supplying the prostate. 

  1. Embolization Process

Once the catheter is in place, the physician injects tiny, biocompatible particles into the prostate arteries. These particles block the flow of blood to the prostate, which causes it to shrink. 

  1. Post-Procedure Care

The catheter is then removed and pressure is applied to stop any bleeding. After a few hours, you can return home and expect to resume normal activities within a few days. Pain is usually minimal and treated with over-the-counter pain medications.

The Importance of Specialized Physicians for PAE

The success of your PAE procedure is highly dependent on the skill and expertise of an interventional radiologist. It’s vital to choose an experienced physician like Dr. Parsons who can provide a safer, more effective treatment with minimal risk and an optimal outcome.

An interventional radiologist specializes in minimally invasive, image-guided procedures. This field is technologically advanced and requires a deep understanding of complex anatomy and the use of cutting-edge equipment, such as fluoroscopy. 

No two patients are alike. A skilled interventional radiologist can navigate each patient’s unique vascular anatomy, identifying the target arteries and reducing the risk of complications.

Discover Lasting Relief from BPH with PAE from CardioVascular Health Clinic

Effective and minimally invasive, prostate artery embolization (PAE) provides relief from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), improving urinary symptoms and overall quality of life. With fewer side effects and a quicker recovery, PAE is a game-changer for many men.

If you’re struggling with BPH symptoms, consult with the experts at CardioVascular Health Clinic. Our team of specialists has been at the forefront of innovative care for decades, pioneering treatments that redefine patient care and quality of life. Schedule an appointment today to explore treatment options and take the first step toward better prostate health.

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Testimonials

I’m about one month out and things are so much better. At my two week evaluation my symptom score had gone from a 27 to a 7, and I’m sure it’s even better now. That speaks volumes. Now that I’m post recovery, there is no incontinence, I go to the bathroom much less and there are no ED side effects like there are with other procedures. In regard to my quality of life, well, I don’t maintain my life based on my proximity to a bathroom anymore.

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Blaine P., M.D.
Professional staff working in a beautiful facility with great doctors who sincerely care about their patients. Without Dr. Schmidt's skill, I would have needed heart bypass surgery instead of a stent. Follow-up has been thorough. I can't recommend them highly enough.
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LeAnn H.

Dr. Jim Melton and all the staff are fantastic. He is an excellent surgeon and his team is GREAT!!!! I just had surgery at the surgery center, I have only great things to say about my experience. Without him I really don't think I would be here to write this. If you’re looking for a good cardiovascular team, they are a 5 star for sure.

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Susie H.

Dr. Parsons and staff are amazing. He truly listened to me from the consult. Staff showed genuine care for my progress post procedure. I had my follow up appointment today so satisfied with results. Blake made me comfortable from the start. He is an activist for uterine fibroids treatment beyond the standard.

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Tamara M.

Professional and caring staff. Dr. Smith is very knowledgeable and shows genuine concern for your personal health. I enjoyed the background music in the procedure room, it really adds to the relaxing atmosphere.

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David L.

Dr. John Schrader is the most personable doctor we know. He stays on top of my dads health care and is genuinely concerned about his health. We never leave his office with questions. He answers them all. Even questions we don’t think of. Always professional but never cold or bad bedside manner. In our opinion he is THE BEST around.
Thank you Dr Schrader.

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Kathy J.

I came to Dr. Warren by a self referral for mals when it took me 8yrs 50+ doctors and thousands of dollars spent on no answers. My first visit I was scared I was just going to be gaslighted just like the past however I was pleasantly shocked when Dr. Warren immediately believed me. She took the time to review many disk I had brought from past tests. She never once dismissed me and listened to ever word I had to say. She scheduled one last test to confirm the diagnosis then I was scheduled for surgery right away. Surgery was a success and I can’t thank her and her staff enough. Dr. Warren truly saved my life.

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Angie W.

Dr. Garner literally saved my life 18 months ago and I've followed him to his new practice with Cardiovascular Health. He explains things so clearly, listens and is just a very nice person. His staff is great, too! I highly recommend!

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D Watts

Some of the nicest staff that I have ever dealt with!! They have been so incredibly awesome to my mom!! Would definitely recommend them to anyone!! Thank you so much for being so great with her!!

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Christy G.

The staff, the nurses, and Dr. Parsons were all amazing. Everything was simple and went well – very Bravo Zulu (military phrase meaning "well done"). In addition to the great staff at CardioVascular Health Clinic, the facilities were clean and well maintained. I have no complaints about anything. The whole experience was A1. I would recommend Dr. Parsons to anyone. He made a huge impact on my life.

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John W.

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