How Long Does Prostate Artery Embolization Last?

Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)—a common condition where the prostate enlarges and causes urinary symptoms. A common concern for men considering PAE is how long the results will last. Will the symptom relief be long-term, or will additional treatments be needed down the road?

At American Prostate Centers, we specialize in minimally invasive procedures like PAE to help men find lasting relief from BPH symptoms. Here are some insights into how long the results of PAE last. 

How Does Prostate Artery Embolization Work?

PAE is a cutting-edge, image-guided procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. The goal is to reduce blood flow to the prostate, causing it to shrink and relieving urinary symptoms. Here’s how the procedure works:

• Arterial Access: A small catheter is inserted into the femoral artery.
• Guided Imaging: Using X-ray guidance, the radiologist navigates the catheter to the arteries supplying blood to the prostate.
• Embolization Process: Tiny particles are injected into these arteries, blocking blood flow and causing the prostate to shrink over time.
• Symptom Relief: As the prostate decreases in size, urinary symptoms improve, leading to a better quality of life.

Since PAE doesn’t involve cutting or removing tissue, recovery is significantly faster than traditional surgery. Most patients return home the same day and resume normal activities within a few days.

How Long Do PAE Results Last?

Short-Term Results

Most men begin experiencing relief within a few weeks of undergoing PAE. As the prostate gradually shrinks, it reduces pressure on the urethra and improves urinary flow. Within one to three months, patients typically notice:

• Reduced urinary urgency and frequency
• Improved bladder emptying
• Less nighttime urination (nocturia)
• Better overall urinary control

Long-Term Results

The longevity of PAE results varies from patient to patient, but clinical studies suggest that:

• 75-90% of men maintain symptom relief for at least three to five years after the procedure.
• Some men experience lasting results beyond five years, especially those with smaller prostates and fewer pre-existing complications.
• Many patients are able to reduce or even eliminate BPH medications after PAE.

Factors That Affect How Long PAE Results Last

Several factors can contribute to long-lasting symptom relief and help you get the most out of your PAE procedure:

• Prostate Size: While PAE is effective for prostates of various sizes, men with moderate-sized prostates often experience the most prolonged benefits. Even for larger prostates, additional treatments can enhance and extend results.
• Severity of BPH Symptoms: Many men with mild to moderate urinary symptoms enjoy long-term relief, and even those with more severe symptoms often see significant improvement over time.
• Overall Health & Wellness: Maintaining good cardiovascular health and overall wellness can enhance the body’s ability to respond positively to PAE, leading to better, more sustained outcomes.
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management can support prostate health and help maintain symptom relief for years to come.
• Proactive Follow-Up Care: Staying engaged with your healthcare provider for routine check-ups ensures that any changes in prostate health are addressed early, helping you enjoy longer-lasting results.

By focusing on healthy habits and regular medical follow-ups, many men can extend the benefits of PAE for years and maintain an improved quality of life.

Success Rates for PAE

PAE has been extensively studied and has high success rates for both symptom relief and quality of life improvement:

• Immediate Success Rate: 70-90% of men experience significant relief from urinary symptoms within the first year.
• Long-Term Success Rate: 75-80% of men maintain improvement for 3-5 years, with some reporting benefits beyond five years.

Compared to traditional surgical options like TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate), PAE has a lower risk of complications such as incontinence and sexual dysfunction, making it an attractive alternative for many men.

Schedule an Appointment with American Prostate Centers

If you’re considering PAE for BPH, an appointment with an experienced interventional radiologist can help determine if it’s the right option for you. At American Prostate Centers, we specialize in advanced, minimally invasive treatments like PAE, offering personalized care to help you achieve long-term relief from urinary symptoms.

Schedule an appointment today to learn more about PAE and how it can improve your quality of life. With the right treatment, you can regain control of your urinary health and enjoy a healthier future.