Understanding BPH Treatment Options

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate, affects millions of men as they age. While medications are often the first line of treatment, many men eventually seek procedural interventions for persistent symptoms.

Prostatic artery embolization (PAE) has emerged as a leading minimally invasive option. PAE works by blocking the blood supply to the enlarged prostate tissue, causing it to shrink. Unlike traditional surgery (TURP), PAE preserves sexual function and carries a lower risk of complications.

The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, typically takes one to two hours, and most patients resume normal activities within a week. Improvement in urinary symptoms is often noticed within two to four weeks and continues to improve over several months.

PAE is an excellent option for men who want to avoid surgery, those who are not candidates for anesthesia, or those who have not responded well to medication.