Living with an abnormal prostate can significantly impact the quality of your life. It is not only uncomfortable but slows down the flow of your urine and impacts ejaculation. About 50% of men between the ages of 50 and 61 develop the condition, and the statistics can be scary. That said, most enlarged prostate cases are noncancerous, but they should still be treated.
Most people do not realize the importance of getting their enlarged prostate treated. This is largely because they believe the condition is not life-threatening. While that is true, it can still make it hard to lead an easy and painless life. If you or your loved one is struggling with an enlarged prostate, get the expert opinion of South Florida Vascular Associates today.
FAQ about prostate artery embolization
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What are the benefits of prostate artery embolization?
Prostate artery embolization is one of the best treatments for an enlarged prostate. For starters, it is minimally invasive and non-surgical. It requires much lesser downtime than surgeries that treat an enlarged prostate. You can do it without the need to get admitted to a hospital. The treatment also has a much lesser risk of complications than other methods.
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Is there an age limit to the surgery?
There are no age limits for prostate artery embolization surgery. It is a minimally invasive treatment and can be conducted on people of all ages. The eligibility for the procedure depends on the patient’s overall health and the severity of the condition. PAE is generally recommended for men who are not suitable for other surgeries and have not responded well to medication.
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How long does the procedure take?
The typical duration for prostate artery embolization is two hours. However, the timing can vary from person to person and depending on the severity of their problem. Patients do not require much downtime, and the recovery process only takes 2-5 days. You can immediately go home after the procedure and return to work or college soon. You can also take part in the activities you normally do and eat what you want.
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Are there any risks to the prostate artery embolization procedure?
PAE rarely has any complications. Even if you suffer from a side effect, it can be treated easily. Risks can include the following:
- Infections
- Bleeding
- Allergic reactions
- Pain in the pelvic region
- Urinary problems
- Erectile dysfunction
- Non-target embolization
- Prostate infection (prostatitis)
- Post-embolization syndrome
Some people are at a higher risk of experiencing these complications than others. It is important to discuss these with your medical provider prior to the treatment.
