What is the success rate for PAE?
Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) works very well for treating an enlarged prostate. It helps improve urinary symptoms without causing problems like sexual side effects. Unlike other treatments, PAE is less risky and does not lead to issues like incontinence. For men using a catheter, PAE can often help them stop needing it, making life more comfortable and easier.
Dr. Phillip T. Zeni Jr.
Our Medical Director Phillip T. Zeni, Jr., M.D., FSIR is a board-certified Interventional Radiologist with over twenty years of experience serving patients in the greater Memphis metropolitan area. He is the founding owner and medical director of Zenith Vascular & Fibroid Center. He previously served as the Chairman of Interventional Radiology for Baptist Memorial Healthcare more than fifteen years. He was the first physician to perform Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) in the city of Memphis.
What Happens During Prostate Artery Embolization?
- During Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE), your doctor places a small tube, called a catheter, into an artery in your wrist or groin. They then guide the catheter to the blood vessels that supply your prostate.
- To see the blood flow, the doctor uses a special X-ray called an arteriogram, where a dye is injected to map the blood vessels feeding the prostate.
- Tiny particles are then injected through the catheter into these blood vessels to reduce blood flow to the prostate.
- This causes the prostate to shrink over time. The doctor will treat both sides of the prostate by repeating these steps on the other side.
- If a small tube (called a Foley catheter) is placed in the bladder during the procedure to help guide the treatment, it will be carefully removed when the procedure is done.
- After PAE, the prostate begins to shrink, and most people notice symptom relief within a few days.
- Blood in the urine is greatly reduced or gone entirely. African-American men with BPH have a higher risk of prostate cancer than Caucasian men, emphasizing the importance of education and early detection in this group.
The Importance of Early Detection in Prostate Health
Prostate health is a critical aspect of overall well-being for men, especially as they age. Early detection of prostate issues, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or other conditions, plays a vital role in ensuring effective treatment and maintaining a high quality of life. Regular check-ups and proactive care can make all the difference when it comes to managing symptoms and avoiding complications.
