Prostate Embolization

Prostate embolization can relieve benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms like difficulty urinating, urine leakage, and too-frequent urge to urinate — with no time in the hospital. If you’re frustrated by these symptoms, Atlanta Embolization Centers is here to help. Call the Atlanta, Georgia, office today or use the easy online appointment maker to connect with the team of experts.

What is prostate embolization?

Prostate embolization is a minimally invasive treatment to relieve symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

With BPH, the prostate gland swells, squeezing the urethra (urine tube). This causes it to partly close off. It can lead to problems like difficulty urinating, increased urinary urgency, and dribbling after urination.

Prostate embolization reduces the blood supply to the prostate gland. It doesn’t eliminate blood to the prostate, nor does it kill the prostate gland. Reducing the blood flow shrinks the prostate. This helps the urethra open so you can experience normal urination again.

When might I need prostate embolization?

The Atlanta Embolization Centers team could recommend prostate embolization if: 

• Your BPH symptoms disrupt your daily life
• Medication doesn’t relieve your symptoms
• Medication causes severe side-effects
• You seek relief but want to avoid surgery

Prostate artery embolization offers an excellent medium ground between medication and surgery. It provides long-lasting symptom relief without a hospital stay or prolonged recovery.

What is the prostate embolization process?

Prostate embolization is an outpatient procedure at Atlanta Embolization Centers. You get a local anesthetic and mild sedative. Your specialist creates a small puncture in your groin or wrist.

They use live X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy) to map the arteries that deliver blood to your prostate gland. Then, they move a catheter (skinny flexible tubing) through the puncture and to those arteries that feed the prostate gland.

Your specialist injects microscopic beads through the catheter into those arteries. The first part of the procedure covers one side of your prostate gland, and your provider then repeats the procedure for the other side.

Once lodged in the blood vessels leading to the prostate gland, the beads quickly take effect, allowing your urethra room to breathe (and carry urine) again.

What is recovery like after prostate embolization?

Immediately after the procedure, the team monitors you for an hour or two. After that, someone can drive you home. Most men resume their normal activities in just a few days. The team gives you personalized recommendations.

If BPH symptoms disrupt your days and nights, Atlanta Embolization Centers can help. Call the office or request your appointment online anytime.