Prostate embolization is an innovative way to treat enlarged prostates in older men without invasive surgery. Since this is a state of the art procedure, many patients have questions regarding what prostate embolization is, how it works, and how safe the treatment is. To learn more about prostate embolization in Bend, take a look at these frequently asked questions and their answers.
What is Prostate Embolization?
Also known as PAE, prostate embolization is a safe and minimally-invasive treatment option for men who suffer from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), known as an enlarged prostate. The prostate embolization procedure can significantly reduce the symptoms of BPH. Men who are seeking an effective treatment option that does not involve drugs or major surgery should consider PAE.
How Does Prostate Embolization Treat Prostatic Hyperplasia?
Prostate embolization in Bend is performed by our interventional radiologists at Central Oregon Radiology Associates. An interventional radiologist makes a tiny incision in the wrist or groin area to insert a catheter into an artery. From there, image guidance is used to direct the catheter to blood vessels supplying the prostate. When the catheter is in the prostatic artery, the radiologist places microscopic beads to block blood flow to the prostate. This starves the cells of oxygen, which in turn causes the gland to shrink back to a reasonable size.
How Safe the Procedure?
PAE is a safe, effective, and well-tolerable treatment that improves lower urinary tract symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia. Results are very promising, as greater than 90% of patients experience significant improvement.
Prostate Embolization in Bend at CORA
PAE is performed by a limited number of interventional radiologists in the United States today, including those at Central Oregon Radiology Associates. However, thanks to its low complication rates and impressive results, the procedure is becoming more readily available around the world. PAE is evolving into a promising, minimally invasive treatment option for patients suffering from symptoms related to BPH.
If you are ready to schedule an appointment with one of our interventional radiologists or wish to learn more, please contact our team at CORA.
