Question 1

What are the benefits of the prostate artery embolization procedure?

Accepted Answer

Prostate embolization can decrease the lower urinary tract symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia. 90% of patients who undergo prostate artery embolization procedure experienced clinical success.

Question 2

What are the risks of prostate embolization?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 40% of patients have a temporary increase in urinary frequency for 24 hours. A small number of patients have developed transient blood in the semen or stool after the procedure.

Question 3

Are there risks of erectile dysfunction?

Accepted Answer

Recent research studies evaluating the risks have shown no risk of erectile dysfunction and a less than 1% risk of serious complications.  Some studies have actually shown an improvement in erectile dysfunction for some patients.

Question 4

Are there conditions I should advise my healthcare provider about before undergoing embolization?

Accepted Answer

Allergy to IV contrast is a relative contraindication to this procedure.

Question 5

What is the evaluation process?

Accepted Answer

Prior to performing the procedure all patients must have had a recent appointment with a urologist to evaluate for signs of prostate cancer and to assure the patient’s symptoms are caused by prostate enlargement.  Several diseases involving the urethra and the bladder can mimic symptoms of BPH, these diseases will not be improved with prostate artery embolization.  If you have not had these tests recently, we may request you have an appointment with a collaborating urologist to assure we feel you are a good candidate.

Question 6

How do I prepare for the procedure?

Accepted Answer

- Arrange to have a familiar person as your designated driver.
- Do not take any blood-thinning agents (such as NSAIDS, aspirin, Coumadin, Warfarin) for five days prior to the procedure.
- Do not eat 8 hours before the procedure. You may have clear liquids up to four hours prior to the procedure. It is okay to take morning medicines with a sip of water, unless otherwise advised.

Question 7

How do I get started on the evaluation process?

Accepted Answer

Step #1: Complete and submit the “Patient Forms” located within the “Patient Forms” link above. 
 
Step #2: Once your medical history is received, we will review your information.  The staff  will contact you if additional information is needed
 
Step #3: Once your medical history has been reviewed to assess if you are a candidate for the PAE procedure, a team member will contact you to schedule a consultation
 
If you print the forms to fill out please fax the completed forms to (405) 844-4032 or email to PAE@tgh.org.  If you have any questions please call 1(800) 678-6942.

Common Questions