Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, is a common condition that affects about 50 percent of men over the age of 60. This condition often comes with symptoms like difficulty in initiating urination, weak or obstructed urination. flow, frequent urination at night (nocturia), and a persistent feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder. These symptoms can disrupt daily life, causing many patients to require medical intervention.

Dr Dharv Kheradia, consultant neuro and vascular interventional radiologist at Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central, explains, “BPH is not life-threatening, but its symptoms can seriously impact the patient’s quality of life. Proper diagnosis is important as these Symptoms may overlap with more serious conditions such as prostate cancer,

To get an accurate diagnosis of the condition, doctors rely on advanced diagnostic tools such as digital rectal examination (DRE), ultrasound, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing, uroflowmetry, and the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). These tests help them decide the best possible treatment solution according to the patient’s condition.

prostate artery embolization (PAE)

For many years, surgery has been the standard treatment for BPH. However, some patients, particularly those with cardiovascular problems or those taking blood-thinning medications, may not be suitable candidates for traditional surgical options. Therefore, in that case, prostate artery embolization (PAE), a minimally invasive procedure, is preferred.

“PAE involves inserting a small catheter into the femoral artery and releasing embolic particles to block blood flow to specific areas of the prostate,” explains Dr. Kheradia. “It reduces the size of the prostate gland, reducing symptoms without the risks associated with open or minimally invasive surgery.”

Benefits of PAE

Studies show that PAE provides symptom relief but with fewer complications than traditional surgical methods. Patients undergoing PAE usually resume normal activities within a few days, with long-term effectiveness reported in more than 80 percent of cases. A 2021 study published in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology shows that PAE patients reported a 70-90 percent reduction in symptoms within three months of the procedure.

Dr. Kheradia shared a real-life example: “We treated a 70-year-old man with moderate BPH who experienced frequent nocturia and urinary difficulties. Due to his cardiac comorbidities, he was not a candidate for surgery. PAE was performed successfully and within six weeks, his symptoms improved 85-90 percent. “He resumed his daily routine shortly thereafter without any complications.”

The minimally invasive nature of PAE makes it a safe option, especially for elderly patients or those with underlying health conditions. Unlike traditional surgery, it involves no general anesthesia, reduces the risk of infection, and allows for same-day discharge in most cases.

As medical advances evolve, procedures like PAE exemplify the shift toward patient-centered, less invasive solutions. Dr. Kheradia shares, “PAE represents a significant breakthrough in BPH care, providing hope and relief to patients who may otherwise face limited options. Its success is a testament to innovation in modern medicine.”

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