In a nutshell
This study looked at the safety and effectiveness of Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) in the treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). It concluded that PAE is safe and effective and may be a good alternative to medication in long term BPH treatment.
Some background
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. An enlarged prostate can affect bladder function and have a negative impact on quality of life. Treatments for BPH may include medication or surgery to remove excess prostate tissue. Medications for BPH often result in many side effects while surgery can lead to complications.
PAE works by blocking the artery that provides the prostate with nutrients. This blockage causes the prostate to shrink and reduce in size. This may be an effective way to treat an enlarged prostate.
Methods & findings
51 men who had BPH were included in this study. These men had moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms (problems with the bladder and urination). They had also failed or stopped medication for their symptoms and were not suitable for surgery. The men were assessed at 1, 2 and 4 weeks after surgery and 3 months after PAE. The occurrence of complications, symptom improvements and quality of life were assessed by questionnaire. Prostate size was assessed by imaging.
The study found that prostate size decreased by approximately 32%. The rate of urine flow also improved. Some complications of surgery included dysuria (pain when urinating), pain around the pelvic area or anus, increased urinary frequency (urinating more often), blood in urine, blood in semen, fever or night sweats, nausea and problems with ejaculation.
The bottom line
This study found that PAE is safe and effective in the treatment of BPH lower urinary tract symptoms.
The fine print
The authors note that PAE lacks studies which follow the patients for long periods of time. They also note that some patients in other studies eventually required surgery to treat their symptoms.
What’s next?
If you are interested in learning more about Prostate Artery Embolization, talk to your doctor.
Published By :
BJU international
Date :
Aug 04, 2018
