Question 1

What is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and why does it happen?

Accepted Answer

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that commonly affects men as they get older. The prostate naturally goes through two main growth phases in life. The second phase typically begins around age 25 and continues slowly over time. In many men, this ongoing growth can lead to the prostate pressing against the urethra, which disrupts normal urine flow. This pressure often leads to problems with urination. Hormonal changes that come with aging are believed to be the main cause of BPH. Although it is not prostate cancer, the symptoms can significantly affect daily life and may require medical treatment.

Question 2

What are the most common symptoms of an enlarged prostate?

Accepted Answer

An enlarged prostate can cause several urinary symptoms. These happen when the growing prostate puts pressure on the urethra and bladder. Common symptoms include:Difficulty starting urination 1.A weak or slow urine stream 2.Dribbling at the end of urination 3. Feeling like the bladder is not fully empty 4. Frequent urination, especially at night 5. Sudden urges to urinate 6. Trouble holding urine (incontinence) 7. Inability to urinate (urinary retention) 8. Blood in the urine (hematuria) if the condition worsens

Question 3

When should I seek treatment for BPH symptoms?

Accepted Answer

You should consider treatment if BPH symptoms start to interfere with your daily activities, your sleep, or your ability to empty the bladder completely. Frequent trips to the bathroom, especially at night, difficulty starting urination, or a weak stream are signs that the prostate may be causing a blockage. More serious concerns, such as urinary retention, recurring urinary tract infections, or blood in the urine, also require medical attention. Early treatment can help relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and improve overall quality of life.

Question 4

How is BPH diagnosed and what tests are typically done?

Accepted Answer

BPH is diagnosed through a physical exam, medical history, and specific tests. Most patients start with a digital rectal exam to check the size of the prostate. Your doctor may also order a PSA blood test, urinalysis, and a prostate ultrasound. In some cases, urodynamic testing or cystoscopy is done to evaluate how well your bladder and urethra are working. These tests help confirm the diagnosis and guide the best treatment plan.

Question 5

What is prostate artery embolization (PAE) and how does it help treat BPH?

Accepted Answer

Prostate artery embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that treats BPH by reducing blood flow to the enlarged prostate. A small catheter is inserted through the wrist or groin and guided to the arteries that supply the prostate. These particles help limit blood flow, which causes the prostate to shrink over time. PAE is performed by an interventional radiologist and does not require surgery or general anesthesia.

Question 6

Who is a good candidate for PAE?

Accepted Answer

You may be a good candidate for prostatic artery embolization if you have: 1. Frequent urination, especially at night 2. Weak urine stream or difficulty starting urination 3. Discomfort or pain when urinating 4. A feeling that your bladder does not fully empty 5. Urinary retention or a history of not being able to urinate 6. BPH symptoms lasting more than one year 7. Tried medications or lifestyle changes without success.

Question 7

How does PAE compare to traditional prostate surgery like TURP?

Accepted Answer

Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive alternative to transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). Unlike TURP, PAE does not involve cutting or removing prostate tissue. Instead, it works by blocking blood flow to specific areas of the enlarged prostate, which causes the tissue to shrink over time.

Question 8

Will PAE affect my sexual function or cause erectile dysfunction?

Accepted Answer

PAE is designed to preserve sexual function. Unlike some surgical procedures, PAE does not involve cutting near the nerves responsible for erections. Most patients report no change in sexual function after the procedure. In fact, because PAE avoids removing tissue, it also lowers the risk of retrograde ejaculation and erectile dysfunction. Every patient is different, but overall, the risks of sexual side effects with PAE are significantly lower than with prostate surgery.

Question 9

What should I expect during the PAE procedure?

Accepted Answer

The PAE procedure is performed by an interventional radiologist and does not require general anesthesia. Here’s what you can expect:1. You will receive light sedation to help you stay relaxed and comfortable. 2. A small puncture is made in your groin or wrist to access the artery. 3. A catheter is guided through the artery to reach the blood vessels that supply the prostate. 4. Microscopic particles are injected to block the blood flow to the enlarged areas of the prostate. The process is usually repeated on the other side using the same entry point. 5. The catheter is removed and a bandage is applied to close the puncture site. 6. The entire procedure typically takes hours, depending on your anatomy. Most patients go home the same day and begin recovery right away.

Question 10

How long is the recovery after PAE and when will I feel better?

Accepted Answer

Most patients recover quickly after prostate artery embolization. You may feel mild pelvic discomfort or notice some urinary symptoms for a few days, but these typically improve within one to two weeks. Many patients begin to notice relief from BPH symptoms within a few weeks, with full improvement often seen by three months. Recovery is generally easier compared to surgery.

Question 11

Are there any risks or side effects with PAE?

Accepted Answer

Prostate artery embolization is a minimally invasive procedure, and serious complications are rare. Some patients may experience mild pelvic pain, urinary frequency, or fatigue for a few days after the procedure. These symptoms usually go away on their own and do not require additional treatment. Because PAE does not involve cutting or removing tissue, the risk of urinary incontinence and sexual side effects like erectile dysfunction is much lower than with traditional prostate surgery.To start, take our free assessment test to find out if you are a candidate for PAE.

Question 12

Will I need follow-up care after the procedure?

Accepted Answer

Yes, follow-up care is part of the process. Our medical center in Florida will schedule check-ins to monitor your recovery, track symptom improvement, and ensure that the prostate is responding well to treatment. If needed, additional imaging or evaluations may be done to confirm that the artery embolization was successful.

Question 13

Is prostate artery embolization covered by insurance?

Accepted Answer

Most insurance plans do cover prostate artery embolization as a treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia. However, it is best to contact your insurance provider directly to confirm your specific coverage. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at info@myprostateclinic.com.

Horizon Vascular Specialists

Horizon Vascular Specialists

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Richard A. Silva, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Shan-e-Ali Haider, M.D., F.A.C.S., R.P.V.I.

Jeffrey Y. Wang, M.D., F.A.C.S.

William Nghiem, M.D., C.A.Q.

Dustin Yoon, M.D., M.S., R.P.V.I.

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