What is the New Treatment for an Enlarged Prostate?
An enlarged prostate, medically known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), affects a significant number of men as they age, leading to uncomfortable and disruptive urinary symptoms in communities like Cocoa, FL, and across Brevard County. For years, treatment options were often limited to medication or invasive surgery. However, a groundbreaking, minimally invasive procedure is changing the landscape of BPH treatment. This new treatment is Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE), a non-surgical solution that offers significant relief with fewer risks and a much quicker recovery.
What is Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)?
Prostate Artery Embolization is a cutting-edge, image-guided procedure designed to shrink the prostate gland without surgical intervention. The primary goal of PAE is to reduce the size of the prostate by blocking the blood flow to it. This causes the prostate to soften and shrink, alleviating the pressure on the urethra and providing long-term relief from urinary symptoms. The American Urologic Association (AUA) updated its guidelines in 2023 to include PAE as a recommended treatment for BPH, cementing its role as a safe and effective option [1].
How is PAE Performed?
The PAE procedure is performed in an outpatient setting and typically takes one to two hours. A specially trained interventional radiologist, like Dr. Derek Mittleider, makes a tiny incision in the wrist or groin to access an artery. Using advanced X-ray imaging for guidance, a very small catheter is navigated through the arterial system to the specific arteries that supply blood to the prostate. Once in position, microscopic particles are injected into these arteries, which block the blood flow. This process, known as embolization, is precise and targets only the prostate tissue, leaving surrounding organs and structures completely unharmed. The lack of blood flow causes the prostate to shrink over the following weeks and months, leading to a significant improvement in symptoms.
What are the Benefits of PAE?
PAE presents numerous advantages over traditional surgical options like Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP). The minimally invasive nature of the procedure translates to a more comfortable patient experience and a faster return to normal activities. Most patients are discharged the same day and can resume their daily routines within a few days.
| Feature | Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) | Traditional Surgery (TURP) |
| Invasiveness | Minimally invasive; no cutting or tissue removal | Invasive; requires cutting and removal of prostate tissue |
| Anesthesia | Local anesthesia with light sedation | General or spinal anesthesia |
| Hospital Stay | Outpatient procedure; no hospital stay required | Typically requires a 1-2 day hospital stay |
| Recovery Time | A few days to a week | Several weeks |
| Catheterization | Rarely required post-procedure | A urinary catheter is typically required for several days |
| Side Effects | Low risk of sexual side effects or incontinence | Higher risk of sexual dysfunction and urinary incontinence |
Studies have shown that over 75% of patients experience a significant and lasting improvement in their urinary symptoms following PAE [1]. Furthermore, unlike surgery, PAE has a very low risk of impacting sexual function. In fact, some studies have reported an improvement in erectile function for a subset of patients after the procedure [1].
Who is a Good Candidate for PAE?
PAE is an excellent option for men who have been diagnosed with BPH and are experiencing moderate to severe urinary symptoms that are not improving with medication. It is particularly well-suited for individuals who wish to avoid the risks and extended recovery associated with surgery, or for those who may not be good candidates for a major surgical procedure due to other health conditions.
Why Choose Vascular and Embolization Specialists for Your PAE Procedure?
When considering a specialized procedure like PAE, the expertise of the physician and the quality of the facility are paramount. Vascular and Embolization Specialists on Florida’s Space Coast offers an unparalleled experience for patients seeking relief from BPH and other conditions requiring advanced vascular care.
Unmatched Expertise with Dr. Derek Mittleider
Dr. Derek Mittleider is a board-certified, fellowship-trained interventional radiologist and a recognized leader in the field of embolization. With a distinguished career that includes serving as the Director of Vascular and Interventional Radiology at Maine Medical Center, Dr. Mittleider brings a wealth of experience and a passion for innovation to his practice in the heart of Brevard County. He has delivered over 60 lectures at international conferences and has an extensive list of publications, underscoring his commitment to advancing vascular care. His expertise ensures that each PAE procedure is performed with the highest level of precision and safety.
A Patient-First Approach in a State-of-the-Art Facility
Vascular and Embolization Specialists operates as a dedicated outpatient center, which means you receive care in a comfortable, convenient setting without the need for a hospital stay. The practice is built on a patient-first philosophy, where every treatment plan is personalized, and every patient is treated with compassion and respect. The team takes the time to listen, educate, and support you throughout your healthcare journey.
Proven Results and Patient Satisfaction
The results speak for themselves. The practice boasts a perfect 5.0-star rating from dozens of satisfied patients. Studies confirm this high level of satisfaction, with research from the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology showing that 80% of patients were satisfied with the results of PAE, and over 90% would recommend the procedure to others.
If you are tired of letting BPH control your life, there is a better way forward. Prostate Artery Embolization offers a safe, effective, and minimally invasive path to relief. To learn more and find out if you are a candidate, schedule a consultation with the expert team at Vascular and Embolization Specialists.
