Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)
in Cocoa, FL
Breakthrough Minimally Invasive Treatment for Enlarged Prostate (BPH) in Cocoa, FL
If you’re experiencing frequent urination, weak flow, or nighttime urgency caused by an enlarged prostate, you may be a candidate for a non-surgical treatment that works. At Vascular and Embolization Specialists in Cocoa, FL, Dr. Derek Mittleider performs prostate artery embolization (PAE)—a minimally invasive procedure that shrinks the prostate and relieves symptoms with less risk, less discomfort, and no hospital stay.
A Proven Alternative to Prostate Surgery
Surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) often involves long recovery times and side effects like sexual dysfunction or incontinence. PAE is a modern, image-guided procedure that targets only the vessels feeding the enlarged prostate—leaving surrounding structures untouched.
- Outpatient procedure takes about 1–2 hours
- No cutting or removal of prostate tissue
- Over 75% of patients report long-term symptom improvement
- No hospital stay or catheter required
What You Should Know About Prostate Artery Embolization
How the Procedure Works
Dr. Mittleider inserts a catheter through a small point in the wrist or groin and uses X-ray guidance to deliver tiny particles into the arteries supplying the prostate. This reduces blood flow, causing the prostate to shrink gradually—alleviating urinary symptoms without affecting sexual or urinary function.
Common BPH Symptoms PAE Can Improve
- Urgent or frequent need to urinate
- Weak or slow urinary stream
- Difficulty starting urination
- Interrupted flow or dribbling
- Waking up at night to urinate
Who Is a Candidate for PAE
You may be a good fit for PAE if you:
Have been diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
Prefer a faster recovery with fewer side effects
Are not getting relief from medication
- Want to avoid surgery or are not a surgical candidate
When to Consider Treatment
Left untreated, BPH can cause bladder strain, infections, or long-term urinary issues. Early treatment with PAE can prevent complications and significantly improve quality of life.
Take Our Quiz to See If You Qualify for PAE
Answer a few simple questions to find out whether prostate artery embolization might be a good fit for your symptoms and lifestyle.
Minimally Invasive Long-Term Relief for BPH
PAE offers men a nonsurgical solution that treats the source of symptoms while preserving function. Most patients see improvement within weeks and report fewer side effects than with other BPH procedures. There’s no cutting, no general anesthesia, and no long recovery—just a clearer, easier way forward.
| Feature | Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) |
TURP (Surgical Resection) | Medications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimally Invasive | Yes |
No | Yes |
| Requires Hospital Stay | No |
Yes | No |
| Recovery Time | 1–3 days |
2–4 weeks | None |
| Preserves Sexual Function | Yes |
Sometimes | Sometimes |
| Catheter Required | No |
Often | No |
| Long-Term Symptom Relief | Yes |
Yes | Variable |
Why Patients Choose Vascular and Embolization Specialists
Our team is focused on providing safe, modern care with real results. Dr. Derek Mittleider is a board-certified interventional radiologist with advanced expertise in prostate artery embolization and minimally invasive men’s health procedures.
Specializing in
Image-Guided Treatment
Board-certified and highly experienced in embolization procedures.
Faster Recovery
and Less Downtime
Same-day discharge and quicker recovery.
Trusted by Patients
on the Space Coast
We take time to listen, educate, and support your health goals.
Prostate artery embolization offers relief from BPH symptoms without the risks of surgery. If you’re ready to take control of your health, we’re here to help you explore a simpler, safer option.
Experience Relief Without Invasive Surgery
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this PAE supported by the American Urologic Association?
Yes. The AUA Guidelines on the Management of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Attributed to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia [LUTS/BPH] were amended in 2023 and include PAE as an acceptable form of treatment. The Guidelines state: “PAE may be offered for the treatment of LUTS/BPH. PAE should be performed by clinicians trained in this Interventional Radiology procedure following a discussion of potential risks and benefits.”
What are the improvements in urinary symptoms following PAE?
A majority of patients who undergo PAE report a significant improvement in urinary symptoms, such as increased urine flow, reduced frequency of urination, and less urgency to urinate. In some published studies, up to 90% of men have reported improvement in urinary symptoms following PAE.
Does PAE impact erectile function?
The majority of men who undergo PAE experience no change in erectile function. A significant minority of men experience an improvement in erectile function. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine in 2022 reported 38% of men who had mild to moderate erectile dysfunction (ED) prior to undergoing PAE reported improvement in erectile function 3 months after the procedure. A retrospective review of 630 patients published in 2016 found that erectile function improved in 36% of men following PAE.
What are the commonly reported side effects and complications?
The most commonly reported side effects include temporary burning or irritation while urinating or difficulty urinating. Serious complications are very rare. There are rare reports of the development of very small ulcers the heal within weeks after the procedure. No permanent damage to any other structure (bowel, bladder, penis) has been reported.
Are patients who undergo PAE satisfied with the procedure?
Most men who undergo PAE report high levels of satisfaction with the procedure. A study published in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology reported that 80% of patients were satisfied with the results of PAE, and over 90% of patients said they would recommend the procedure to other men. A study published in the British Journal of Urology reported 84% patient satisfaction.