Can PAE be Repeated?

Introduction:

Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that has been shown to be an effective treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common condition in men. PAE involves blocking the blood vessels that supply the prostate with blood, which can reduce the size of the prostate and alleviate symptoms such as difficulty urinating. In some cases, patients may wonder if PAE can be repeated if the symptoms recur or if the prostate continues to grow. In this blog post, we will explore the possibilities of repeating PAE and provide information on when it may be necessary.

Can PAE be Repeated?

The short answer is yes, PAE can be repeated in certain cases. While PAE is generally considered to be a long-lasting treatment for BPH, some patients may experience a recurrence of symptoms or a continued growth of the prostate over time. In these cases, repeating PAE may be an option to alleviate symptoms and prevent the need for more invasive treatments such as surgery.

When is Repeat PAE Necessary?

Repeat PAE is typically recommended if a patient experiences a recurrence of symptoms or if the prostate continues to grow after the initial procedure. However, it is important to note that not all patients will require repeat PAE. Some patients may experience long-lasting symptom relief after the initial procedure and may not require further treatment.

Repeat PAE is generally considered to be safe, but there are some potential risks and limitations to the procedure. The decision to repeat PAE should be made on an individual basis and in consultation with a healthcare provider who has experience with the procedure.

Conclusion:

Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is an effective treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) that can provide long-lasting symptom relief for many patients. While repeat PAE is possible in certain cases, not all patients will require further treatment. If a patient experiences a recurrence of symptoms or continued growth of the prostate, repeat PAE may be an option to consider. It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of repeat PAE with a healthcare provider to determine if it is the right course of action for individual medical needs.

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References:

1. Carnevale, F. C., Antunes, A. A., & da Motta-Leal-Filho, J. M. (2016). Prostate artery embolization as a primary treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia: Preliminary results in two patients. Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology, 39(4), 530-533. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00270-015-1237-7
2. Carnevale, F. C., Iscaife, A., Yoshinaga, E. M., Moreira, A. M., Antunes, A. A., Srougi, M., & Cerri, G. G. (2017). Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) versus original and PErFecTED prostate artery embolization (PAE) due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH): Preliminary results of a single center, prospective, urodynamic-controlled analysis. Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology, 40(4), 530-538. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00270-016-1535-6
3. Carnevale, F. C., & Moreira, A. M. (2017). Prostate artery embolization for benign prostatic hyperplasia: When and how to use it. Current Urology Reports, 18(10),