Find A Doctor – Illinois
If you are dealing with urinary problems or symptoms of an enlarged prostate, men across Illinois can now access advanced treatment options. One of the most effective choices is Prostate Artery Embolization, a minimally invasive procedure that treats benign prostatic hyperplasia without surgery. From evaluation to follow-up, each step is guided by your needs and medical history.
Practices In Illinois
Prostate and Urinary Health Treatment in Illinois
Men in Illinois experiencing lower urinary tract symptoms can now receive specialized care focused on long-term relief. These symptoms may include weak urine flow, frequent urination, urgency, or trouble emptying the bladder. Our approach targets common conditions affecting the prostate gland and urinary tract using safe and effective techniques.
We help patients with:
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
- Enlarged prostate
- Urinary retention
- Frequent urination during the day or at night
- Urinary incontinence
- Bladder control problems
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
If you are living with any of these symptoms, we are here to help.
Why More Men Are Choosing PAE for Enlarged Prostate Treatment
Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) offers an alternative to surgical procedures like transurethral resection (TURP). By targeting the blood vessels that feed the enlarged areas of the prostate tissue, PAE gently reduces the size of the prostate gland and relieves pressure on the bladder neck and urinary stream.
Customized Planning Before Treatment
We begin with detailed imaging to map the blood vessels that supply your prostate. This allows your interventional radiologist in Illinois to treat only the areas responsible for your symptoms, preserving healthy tissue and avoiding unnecessary disruption.
Outpatient Procedure With Quicker Recovery
PAE is done without general anesthesia and usually takes less than two hours. Most patients go home the same day and return to regular activities within a few days. There’s less risk of erectile dysfunction or urinary incontinence compared to traditional prostate surgery.
Precise, Image-Guided Care
Every step of the procedure is guided by real-time imaging, so your specialist can treat only the affected areas. This focused technique leads to a smoother experience and fewer complications.
Targeted Vascular Mapping
By identifying exactly which blood vessels are feeding the enlarged prostate, we can block those vessels with tiny particles, shrinking the gland over time. This targeted approach helps improve urine flow and reduce BPH symptoms long term.
What to Expect When Starting Care in Illinois
We offer care that is based on your symptoms, prostate size, PSA levels, and overall health. We also review your current medications, any history of urinary tract infections, and past treatments to find the best approach for you.
Here is how the process works:
Initial Contact: Start by taking our free risk assessment or reaching out to see if PAE is right for you.
Clinic Visit: If you are a candidate, you will meet with a prostate specialist in Illinois who will review your symptoms, perform a physical exam, and may order tests such as a PSA test, urinalysis, or imaging.
Procedure Day: You will receive personalized care using image-guided techniques. Most patients do not need an overnight stay and go home within a few hours.
We work with experienced interventional radiologists and BPH treatment providers across Illinois. Whether you are looking for a non-surgical option or have not responded to medication like alpha blockers, our team can help guide you toward the right solution.
FAQs About BPH Symptoms, Diagnosis, and PAE
What is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and why does it happen as men age?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. It’s common in older men and typically starts to progress around age 50 due to age-related hormonal changes. As the prostate grows, it can press against the urethra, leading to lower urinary tract symptoms like weak urine stream, frequent urination, and a constant urge to go even at night.
When should I see a doctor about prostate or urinary symptoms?
It’s time to see a doctor if you’re having trouble starting urination, notice a weak or interrupted stream, feel like your bladder doesn’t fully empty, or wake up often at night to urinate. These symptoms may be due to BPH, but they can also signal other issues like urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or even prostate cancer. Early evaluation helps identify the cause and avoid complications like urinary retention or kidney damage.
What is Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE), and how does it treat BPH?
Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is a nonsurgical treatment for BPH performed by an interventional radiologist. A small catheter is inserted through the wrist or groin to reach the arteries that supply the prostate. Tiny particles are injected to block blood flow to the overgrown areas of the prostate, causing them to shrink over time. This helps improve urine flow and reduce symptoms like urgency, frequency, and incomplete emptying, without the risks of traditional prostate surgery.
How is PAE different from traditional prostate surgery?
PAE is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require general anesthesia, cutting, or removal of prostate tissue. Instead, a catheter is inserted through the groin or wrist to block the blood vessels that supply the prostate gland. This approach reduces the risk of urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, which are more common with traditional prostate surgeries like transurethral resection (TURP). PAE is typically performed as an outpatient procedure and has a shorter recovery time.
Am I a good candidate for PAE if I have moderate to severe BPH symptoms?
You may be a good candidate for PAE if you:
- Have moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms
- Have an enlarged prostate causing urinary retention or weak urine flow
- Prefer a non-surgical option for treating BPH
- Have not found relief with medications like alpha blockers
- Are not a suitable candidate for prostate surgery due to other health issues
To start, take our free online assessment so we can review your symptoms and health history before your clinic visit. This helps determine whether Prostate Artery Embolization is the right fit for your condition.
How is BPH diagnosed and evaluated before treatment like PAE?
Before moving forward with Prostate Artery Embolization, your doctor will perform a thorough evaluation to confirm that your symptoms are caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia and not another condition. This process helps ensure that PAE is the right treatment for you.
You may undergo the following tests:
- Medical history and symptom review. Your doctor will ask about your urinary symptoms, how long they’ve been present, and how they affect your daily life.
- Digital rectal exam (DRE). A physical examination to assess the size, shape, and consistency of the prostate gland.
- Urinalysis and urine culture. These tests detect infection, blood, or abnormalities in the urine that may mimic BPH symptoms.
- PSA test (Prostate-Specific Antigen). A blood test used to measure PSA levels, which can indicate prostate enlargement, inflammation, or, in some cases, prostate cancer.
- Transrectal ultrasound. This imaging test gives a detailed view of the prostate’s size and structure.
- Urodynamic testing. Measures how well the bladder and urethra store and release urine, helping assess the impact of BPH.
- Cystoscopy (in some cases). A thin tube with a camera may be used to examine the urethra and bladder if other causes are suspected.
- Symptom questionnaire (IPSS). A scoring system used to rate the severity of lower urinary tract symptoms and track progress.
These tests help rule out other causes such as urinary tract infections, prostatitis, bladder cancer, or urethral strictures, and confirm whether you are a strong candidate for PAE.
Can men with very large prostates or other health conditions still qualify for PAE?
Yes. PAE can be effective for men with very large prostate glands, especially those who are not ideal candidates for surgical treatment. It’s also a safe option for patients with high blood pressure, heart conditions, or other medical concerns that may increase surgical risk.
What happens during the PAE procedure, and how long does it take?
Prostate Artery Embolization is a nonsurgical treatment that typically lasts 1 to 2 hours. Here’s what to expect:
Catheter placement. A catheter is inserted through a small puncture in the groin or wrist.
Guided navigation. Using advanced imaging, the interventional radiologist guides the catheter toward the arteries that supply blood to the prostate gland.
Blocking blood flow. Tiny particles are injected to block these arteries, reducing blood supply to the overgrown prostate tissue.
Treatment completion. The same process is repeated on both sides of the prostate to maximize effectiveness and relieve pressure on the urethra.
Does PAE require general anesthesia or an overnight hospital stay?
No, PAE is usually performed with local anesthesia and mild sedation. General anesthesia is not needed. Most patients go home the same day, as it is considered an outpatient procedure.
What should I expect after the procedure in terms of recovery and side effects?
Recovery after PAE is generally quick. Some men experience mild pelvic discomfort, urinary urgency, or fatigue for a few days. These symptoms typically improve within one to two weeks. Most patients return to normal activities shortly after the procedure, with follow-up care to track symptom relief and prostate shrinkage.
How soon will I notice improvements in symptoms like weak urine flow or frequent urination?
Most patients begin to notice improvements in urine flow, urgency, and frequency within a few weeks after the procedure. Maximum relief from BPH symptoms usually occurs around 2 to 3 months as the prostate gradually shrinks.
Will PAE affect my sexual health or cause problems like erectile dysfunction?
PAE has a lower risk of sexual side effects compared to traditional prostate surgery. Most men do not experience erectile dysfunction or retrograde ejaculation after the procedure, making it a favorable option for preserving sexual function.
What kind of follow-up care is needed after PAE?
Follow-up care typically includes imaging or clinical exams to monitor how well the prostate is responding. Your doctor may also review your urinary symptoms, check your PSA levels, and adjust your BPH treatment plan if needed. Regular visits help ensure long-term success and address any ongoing concerns.
Is Prostate Artery Embolization a permanent solution or will I need future treatment?
PAE provides long-term relief for many men with benign prostatic hyperplasia, but like other BPH treatments, results can vary. Some patients may need additional treatment over time, especially if prostate growth continues. Regular follow-up helps monitor symptoms and guide future care if needed.
Does insurance or Medicare cover PAE for treating BPH?
Yes, most insurance plans and Medicare cover Prostate Artery Embolization when it’s used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia. Coverage may vary, so it’s best to contact your insurance provider directly to confirm your benefits. If you have additional questions, feel free to contact us at info@myprostateclinic.com.
Disclaimer: The content on this page is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your specific health concerns.