Prostate Artery Embolization Experts in Ohio for Minimally Invasive BPH Relief
Get clear answers about prostate artery embolization, BPH symptoms, and treatment options—all in one place. We offer minimally invasive care for men with an enlarged prostate and urinary symptoms, with faster recovery and fewer complications than traditional surgery. Learn how our interventional radiologists in Ohio create personalized treatment plans with expert guidance every step of the way.
Practices In Ohio
Specialized BPH Treatment Without Surgery in Ohio
If you are dealing with urinary symptoms or have been diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), we are here to help. Our Ohio-based team offers minimally invasive treatments focused on improving prostate and bladder function without surgery. Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is one of the effective options available for men looking to avoid traditional procedures.
Conditions we address include:
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
- Enlarged prostate
- Urinary incontinence
- Bladder control issues
- Frequent urination, day or night
- Urinary retention
- Slow or interrupted urine stream
If you are noticing any of these symptoms, now is a good time to take the next step.
Why Choose PAE for Enlarged Prostate Treatment in Ohio
A minimally invasive treatment that targets the problem directly, helping men find relief from urinary discomfort without the need for surgery.
Customized Care
With detailed imaging and relief mapping, we identify the arteries supplying blood to your prostate gland. This allows us to perform Prostatic Artery Embolization with precision, targeting the right areas based on your individual anatomy and symptom pattern.
Faster Recovery
PAE is an outpatient procedure with shorter recovery times compared to surgical treatments like transurethral resection (TURP). Most patients experience only mild discomfort and return to their normal routines much sooner.
Targeted Approach
Our interventional radiologists perform the procedure using real-time imaging to guide treatment directly to the source, protecting surrounding tissues while reducing pressure on the urethra.
Effective Relief
By accurately treating the arteries involved, PAE helps shrink the prostate over time. This can lead to long-term relief from urinary symptoms with minimal disruption to your daily life.
What to Expect from PAE for Enlarged Prostate Symptoms in Ohio
Every care plan is tailored to fit your health, symptoms, and medical history. Our clinic focuses on urology-related concerns while also offering support for other conditions when needed.
Here is how the process works:
- Reach Out: Contact us to find out if you are eligible for a non-surgical option like PAE.
- Clinic Visit: If you are a candidate, you will meet with a specialist for a full consultation and treatment planning.
- Procedure Day: On the day of your appointment, you will receive image-guided, minimally invasive care designed to improve urinary function and reduce prostate symptoms.
You will be connected with a trusted urology specialist in Ohio who is experienced in providing relief through advanced, minimally invasive treatments.
Everything You Need to Know About PAE for BPH
What is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and how does it affect me?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is a common condition that affects men as they get older. It happens when the prostate gland, which sits below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, begins to grow larger. This growth is non-cancerous but can cause problems with urination by putting pressure on the urethra and blocking the flow of urine.
BPH is not prostate cancer, but it can lead to uncomfortable and sometimes serious urinary symptoms. Many men begin to notice signs in their 50s or 60s, and it becomes more common with age. While some cases remain mild, others may lead to complications such as bladder problems, urinary tract infections, or even acute urinary retention if left untreated
What are the most common symptoms of an enlarged prostate?
Common symptoms of BPH include:
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak or interrupted urine flow
- Frequent urge to urinate, especially at night
- Sudden, strong need to urinate
- Feeling like the bladder is not completely empty
- Dribbling at the end of urination
- Pain or burning during urination
- Blood in the urine
- Inability to urinate, which may require immediate medical care
How do I know if my BPH symptoms are serious enough to need treatment?
If your symptoms begin to affect sleep, daily routine, or bladder control, it is time to see a doctor. Serious signs include recurrent infections, blood in the urine, or sudden urinary retention. Early diagnosis can prevent complications and help you explore treatment options such as medications, surgery, or minimally invasive procedures like prostate artery embolization.
What tests are used to diagnose BPH?
To diagnose benign prostatic hyperplasia, a urologist will review your medical history and perform a physical exam. Common tests include:
- Digital rectal exam (DRE). A physical check of the prostate to feel for size or irregularities
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. Measures PSA levels, which may rise with an enlarged prostate or prostate cancer.
- Urinalysis. Checks for infection or blood in the urine.
- Ultrasound. Imaging, often transrectal, used to measure prostate size and assess the bladder.
- Urodynamic tests. This helps evaluate bladder function and pressure during urination.
- Cystoscopy (in some cases). Allows direct viewing of the urethra and bladder.
These tests help confirm BPH and rule out other conditions that may cause similar urinary symptoms.
Does BPH increase my risk for prostate cancer?
No, benign prostatic hyperplasia does not increase your risk of prostate cancer. These are two separate conditions, but they can share similar symptoms, such as frequent urination or a weak urine stream. Because of this overlap, it is important to have your symptoms properly evaluated.
Our urology specialists in Ohio will assess your symptoms, review your medical history, and determine if further testing is needed to rule out prostate cancer. If necessary, we may recommend a PSA blood test or imaging. From diagnosis to treatment, our team will guide you through each step with a clear plan tailored to your needs.
What is prostate artery embolization (PAE), and how does it treat BPH?
Prostate artery embolization helps shrink the prostate and improve urine flow without surgery. The procedure works by reducing blood flow to the enlarged areas of the prostate gland. An interventional radiologist inserts a small catheter through the groin or wrist and guides it to the arteries supplying the prostate. Tiny particles are injected to block those arteries, causing the excess tissue to shrink over time. This relieves pressure on the urethra, improves urine flow, and reduces urinary frequency.
How is PAE different from traditional prostate surgery like TURP?
PAE does not involve cutting or removing prostate tissue. Unlike transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), PAE is performed through a small puncture and does not require general anesthesia. This is done on an outpatient basis and usually has a shorter recovery time. It also has a lower risk of complications such as urinary incontinence, retrograde ejaculation, and erectile dysfunction. PAE is a good option for men looking for an alternative to surgical treatments.
Am I a good candidate for PAE?
You may be a good candidate for PAE if you have moderate to severe symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia and are looking for a minimally invasive treatment. This option is often recommended for men who cannot undergo surgery due to other medical conditions or who have very large prostates.
To help you get started, you can take our free risk assessment online. Based on your results, we will refer you to an interventional radiologist in Ohio who can review your medical history, imaging, and symptoms to determine if prostate artery embolization is the right treatment for you.
What happens during the PAE procedure?
During prostate artery embolization, a small catheter is inserted through a puncture in the groin or wrist. Using advanced imaging, the interventional radiologist guides the catheter to the arteries that supply blood to the prostate gland. Once in place, tiny particles are injected to block the blood flow to the enlarged areas of the prostate. This causes the tissue to shrink over time, easing pressure on the urethra and improving urine flow. The procedure typically lasts one to two hours and is performed in an outpatient setting.
Will I be under general anesthesia for PAE?
No. General anesthesia is not required for PAE. Instead, you will receive local anesthesia at the puncture site and mild sedation through an IV to keep you relaxed and comfortable. Most patients stay awake but feel no pain during the procedure. This approach lowers the risks associated with general anesthesia and allows for a quicker recovery.
How long is the recovery time after prostate artery embolization?
Recovery after prostate artery embolization is usually quick. Most patients return to light activities within a few days and feel back to normal in about one to two weeks. Since PAE is an outpatient procedure and does not require general anesthesia, the downtime is often shorter compared to traditional prostate surgery. Some mild discomfort or pelvic pressure may occur but typically resolves within a few days.
When will I start to feel relief after PAE?
Many patients begin to notice symptom relief within two to four weeks after the procedure. Improvements in urinary frequency, urgency, and urine flow continue over time as the prostate gland gradually shrinks. Maximum results are usually seen within three to six months. The goal of prostate artery embolization is to reduce pressure on the urethra and restore more natural bladder function.
Are there any risks or side effects with PAE?
PAE is considered a safe and minimally invasive treatment, but like any procedure, it carries some risks. Possible side effects include temporary pelvic pain, frequent urination, mild fatigue, or low-grade fever. These symptoms clear up shortly after the procedure.
Serious complications are rare but can include infection, damage to nearby blood vessels, or unintended embolization of other arteries. A full medical history and imaging review help your interventional radiologist evaluate and reduce these risks.
Will I need follow-up care after the procedure?
Yes. Follow-up care is an important part of the recovery process after prostate artery embolization. Your doctor will schedule appointments to monitor your progress, review symptom improvement, and confirm that the prostate gland is responding as expected. Imaging may be used during follow-up visits to check changes in blood flow and prostate size. If any new symptoms occur, they can be addressed early to avoid complications.
Is prostate artery embolization covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage for prostate artery embolization depends on your specific plan and provider. Contact your insurance provider directly to confirm benefits, coverage, and any required documentation before scheduling the procedure.