Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is a common condition affecting aging men. It involves the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate, which can lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as frequent urination, weak urinary stream, and difficulty emptying the bladder. While traditional surgical treatments are effective, they can be highly invasive and carry certain risks. For patients seeking a less disruptive alternative, prostatic artery embolization has emerged as a safe and effective option.
What Is Prostatic Artery Embolization?
Prostatic artery embolization is a minimally invasive procedure performed by interventional radiologists. Unlike traditional surgery, it does not require incisions or general anesthesia. Instead, a small catheter is inserted through an artery in the wrist or groin and guided to the arteries that supply blood to the enlarged prostate. Tiny particles are then released to block these vessels — a process known as embolization — reducing blood flow to the prostate tissue. As a result, the volume of the prostate gradually decreases, alleviating pressure on the urinary tract and relieving symptoms.
Advantages of Minimally Invasive Treatment
There are several reasons why patients and urology specialists are increasingly turning to embolization:
- Reduced recovery time – Since there are no large incisions, patients can usually return home the same day and resume normal activities within a few days.
- Lower risk of complications – The absence of general anesthesia and surgical trauma reduces the risk of bleeding, infection, and incontinence.
- Preservation of sexual function – One of the major concerns with invasive prostate surgeries is the potential for erectile dysfunction. Embolization poses a lower risk to sexual health.
- Outpatient procedure – The procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting, making it more convenient for the patient.
In addition, the procedure is highly precise, as the physician navigates the catheter through the arteries using real-time imaging to ensure accurate delivery of the embolic material. This level of control enhances both the safety and effectiveness of the treatment, making it an appealing option for men with BPH.
Who Can Benefit from Embolization?
This procedure is especially beneficial for men who:
- Are not good candidates for surgery due to age or other health issues
- Prefer a treatment with minimal downtime
- Have not responded well to medications for BPH
- Want to avoid the risks associated with more invasive procedures
That said, not all patients are suitable candidates for embolization. A full evaluation, including imaging studies and consultation with a urology specialist, is essential to determine eligibility.
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
The embolization procedure usually takes one to two hours. It begins with a local anesthetic to numb the entry point. A catheter is inserted and advanced into the arteries that feed the prostate. Once in place, embolic agents are delivered to block the blood supply. Patients typically experience mild discomfort or cramping afterward, but this subsides within a few days.
Recovery is quick. Most patients notice symptom improvement within a few weeks, with continued prostate volume reduction over time. Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor progress and ensure the urinary symptoms are improving as expected.
Booking Health: Connecting You with Advanced Urological Care in Germany
For patients considering prostatic artery embolization abroad, Booking Health offers access to Germany’s top clinics specializing in interventional urology. With years of experience in organizing medical travel, Booking Health ensures patients receive high-quality, personalized care from professional radiologists and urologists. The platform assists with everything from medical appointments to travel logistics and post-procedure support.
Don’t wait to regain control over your urinary health — contact Booking Health today to explore whether prostatic artery embolization is right for you.
