(Audio) Can Prostate Artery Embolization Replace Surgery for BPH?

**Can prostate artery embolization (PAE) provide an effective, minimally invasive treatment option for men with an enlarged prostate?** In this episode, **Vic Senese, RN, BSN, FAUNA**, explores **Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)** with **Dr. Ayygari**, as part of a **myCME.com educational series on PAE**. PAE is an increasingly important treatment option for men experiencing symptoms caused by **benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)**, also known as an enlarged prostate. Unlike traditional prostate surgery, PAE is performed by an interventional radiologist using a catheter to selectively block blood flow to portions of the prostate. The goal is to reduce prostate volume and improve **lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS)** associated with BPH. In this episode, we take a closer look at how **prostate artery embolization works**, how physicians identify the prostate arteries, and where PAE fits among today's treatment options for BPH. - What is **prostate artery embolization (PAE)?** - How PAE treats **benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)** - How the prostate's blood supply affects the procedure - How physicians identify the **prostate arteries** - The role of **cone-beam CT** during PAE - How embolization particles reduce blood flow to the prostate - What happens to the prostate after embolization - Potential benefits of PAE - Possible risks and complications - PAE compared with traditional prostate procedures - PAE compared with medications for BPH - Who may be an appropriate candidate for PAE - What patients should ask their urologist and interventional radiologist - The evolving role of PAE in the treatment of **LUTS and enlarged prostate** **Prostate Artery Embolization** is a minimally invasive procedure designed to reduce blood flow to the prostate. During the procedure, an interventional radiologist guides a small catheter through an artery—often beginning through the wrist or groin—and navigates to the arteries supplying the prostate. Tiny embolic particles are then delivered to selected prostate arteries. By reducing blood flow, the prostate can shrink over time, potentially improving urinary symptoms. One of the fascinating aspects of PAE is that **prostate vascular anatomy varies from patient to patient**. Advanced imaging, including **cone-beam CT**, can help physicians identify the appropriate vessels and confirm blood flow during the procedure. 🔎 Topics discussed include:🩺 What is PAE? \*The expert's opinions in this communication are personal and not representative of any organization. They are for informational purposes only, not official guidance. Viewers are advised to use their judgment, seek additional advice, and take responsibility for any actions based on these opinions.