Benign Prostate Hyperplasia
If you or your loved one is seeking relief from the challenges of benign prostate hyperplasia, our Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic vascular specialist, Dr. Manish Taneja, is dedicated to providing cutting-edge treatments and personalized care to help you reclaim control over your urinary health. We believe that every step towards a healthier prostate is a step towards a happier, more fulfilling life.
Overview
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous condition affecting men caused by an enlarged prostate gland. The enlarged prostate compresses on the urine channel leading from the bladder outwards affecting the flow and passage of urine.
Recognising Symptoms
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate, especially at night (nocturia)
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak urine stream or a stream that stops and starts
- Dribbling at the end of urination
- Urinary tract infection
- Inability to urinate/empty the bladder
- Blood in the urine
Benign Prostate Hyperplasia Treatment Options
There are multiple treatment options to treat BPH. One of the endovascular procedures to treat BPH is Prostate artery embolization (PAE). This procedure is supported under NICE guideline (National Institute of Health and Care Excellence), UK.
Prostate Artery Embolisation
PAE is a minimally invasive procedure that selectively treats the enlarged prostate by blocking off the specific arteries that feed the enlarged part of the gland . PAE was first performed in 2009. In PAE, 2 mm access is done in artery of groin or wrist under local anaesthesia and intravenous sedation , and small tube called catheter is used to reach the arteries that supply the prostate selectively. Tiny microspheres/ particles are then injected into the small arteries that supply the prostate to block off the blood supply to the diseased enlarged prostate. As a result, the prostate shrinks and the urethra is less compressed.
PAE is done as a day surgery procedure under local anaesthesia and intravenous sedation. It takes about one hour to do the procedure. Most patients experience minimal pain and discomfort, recover within 4–6 hours post-procedure and can be discharged home.
Patients who are particularly suitable for PAE:
- Elderly patients with severe symptoms and who are considered at significant risk for general anaesthesia and surgery
- Patients not suitable for TURP due to bleeding risks
- Patients who wish to maintain their urinary continence and sexual potency
Frequently Asked Questions
What is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that commonly occurs in men as they age. An enlarged prostate can compress the urethra, making it difficult for urine to pass normally and causing urinary symptoms.
What are the common symptoms of BPH?
Common BPH symptoms include frequent or urgent urination, especially at night, difficulty starting urination, a weak or interrupted urine stream, dribbling after urination, and difficulty completely emptying the bladder. Some men may also experience urinary tract infections or blood in the urine.
Can benign prostatic hyperplasia cause difficulty urinating?
Yes. As the prostate enlarges, it can put pressure on the urethra and restrict urine flow. This may cause a weak urine stream, difficulty starting urination, frequent urination, or, in severe cases, an inability to urinate.
What is prostate artery embolisation (PAE) for BPH?
Prostate artery embolisation (PAE) is a minimally invasive treatment for an enlarged prostate. During the procedure, a specialist uses a small catheter to reach the arteries supplying the prostate and injects tiny particles to reduce its blood supply. This causes the enlarged prostate tissue to shrink, helping relieve pressure on the urethra and improve urinary symptoms.
How is prostate artery embolisation performed?
PAE is generally performed as a day-surgery procedure under local anaesthesia and intravenous sedation. A small catheter is inserted through an artery in the wrist or groin and guided to the arteries supplying the prostate. Tiny microspheres are then delivered to reduce blood flow to the enlarged prostate. The procedure typically takes about one hour.
How long does it take to recover after PAE?
Most patients can recover for approximately 4–6 hours after prostate artery embolisation and may be discharged home the same day. Recovery can vary between individuals, so your specialist will provide personalized post-procedure instructions and follow-up care.
Who may be suitable for prostate artery embolisation?
PAE may be considered for men with bothersome or severe BPH symptoms, particularly those who may have a higher risk from general anaesthesia or surgery, those who are not suitable for procedures such as TURP because of bleeding risks, or those who wish to preserve urinary continence and sexual function. A specialist assessment is needed to determine whether PAE is appropriate.
Is prostate artery embolisation an alternative to surgery for BPH?
PAE is a minimally invasive treatment option that may be considered as an alternative to some surgical treatments for BPH. Whether it is the right choice depends on factors such as prostate size, symptoms, overall health, previous treatments, and individual treatment goals. A vascular or interventional specialist can assess your suitability for PAE.
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