Prostate Artery Embolisation Newcastle
A minimally invasive and image-guided procedure that treats an enlarged prostate by reducing its blood supply and causing it to shrink. It is carried out through a tiny catheter without surgery on the urethra itself.
What is prostate artery embolisation?
Prostate artery embolisation, often called PAE, is a minimally invasive treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia, which is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate.
As the prostate enlarges, it can press on the urethra and cause symptoms such as:
- Weak urinary stream
- Difficulty starting urination
- Frequent urination
- Waking at night to pass urine
PAE works differently from traditional prostate surgery. Instead of removing tissue through the urethra, it reduces the blood supply to the prostate. With less blood flow, the gland gradually shrinks and pressure on the urethra reduces.
The procedure is performed by an interventional radiologist. A very small catheter is inserted into an artery in the wrist or groin and guided to the prostate’s blood vessels using X-ray imaging. Tiny particles are then released to block the targeted vessels.
Because no instruments are passed through the urethra and no tissue is cut or removed, PAE can be appealing for men who wish to avoid conventional surgery or whose health makes surgery less suitable.
Your consultant will assess whether prostate artery embolisation in Newcastle is appropriate for your prostate size, symptoms and general health. Care is coordinated with the interventional radiology team.
How it works
PAE relieves bladder outlet obstruction by shrinking the prostate from within.
Tiny catheter access
A very small catheter is guided through an artery in the wrist or groin to the arteries supplying the prostate.
Blood supply reduced
Microscopic particles are injected to block selected blood vessels feeding the enlarged prostate.
Gradual shrinkage
With reduced blood supply, the prostate gradually decreases in size, easing pressure on the urethra and improving urinary symptoms.
Who prostate artery embolisation may suit
PAE may be suitable for men who:
- Have bothersome urinary symptoms due to an enlarged prostate
- Prefer to avoid conventional prostate surgery
- May not be suitable for surgery due to other health conditions
- Have a prostate size that makes other procedures less appropriate
- Would prefer an option that does not involve the urethra
A detailed assessment including imaging helps confirm suitability.
What to expect
- Assessment
Your urologist and the interventional radiology team review your symptoms, medical history and imaging. This ensures PAE is an appropriate option. - The procedure
Under local anaesthetic and imaging guidance, the small catheter is positioned in the prostate arteries and the particles are released. The procedure does not involve surgery on the urethra. - Recovery
Most men go home the same day or after a short stay. Mild pelvic discomfort, urinary frequency or temporary irritation can occur. Symptom improvement usually develops gradually over several weeks as the prostate shrinks. Follow-up ensures progress is monitored.
Why choose The Forbury Clinic for prostate artery embolisation in Newcastle?
No urethral surgery
The prostate is treated through its blood supply rather than through the urethra.
Minimally invasive approach
Carried out through a tiny catheter via the wrist or groin without surgical incisions.
Option when surgery is not ideal
Can be suitable for men whose general health or prostate size makes conventional surgery less appropriate.
Coordinated specialist care
Your urologist works alongside the interventional radiology team to ensure joined-up decision making and follow-up.
Frequently asked questions
Who performs PAE?
It is performed by an interventional radiologist in collaboration with your urologist.
How soon will I notice improvement?
Symptoms typically improve gradually over the following weeks as the prostate shrinks.
Is it suitable if I am not fit for surgery?
PAE can be considered for men whose general health makes traditional surgery less suitable. Assessment is needed to confirm this.
Does PAE involve a catheter in the bladder?
The procedure uses a small catheter placed in an artery rather than through the urethra. Your team will explain what to expect before and after treatment.
Are there specific risks?
As with any procedure, there are risks. Because PAE involves blood vessels, it has particular considerations which will be explained fully during consultation.
Will PAE shrink my prostate enough to help?
PAE aims to reduce prostate size and improve symptoms. The degree of improvement varies between individuals. Your consultant will discuss realistic expectations and how this compares with other treatments.
Book your urology consultation today
Consultations are available to book online for patients with or without a GP referral. Our private specialists provide world-class care in a discrete environment.
- AppointmentBook a consultation
- Reception01189207055
- Location
The Beverley Hospital, The Edge, Fifth Ave, Team Valley, Gateshead NE11 0XA
