Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)

Houston’s First Center to offer Prostate Artery Embolization.

We have performed more PAE’s than ANY provider in the Houston Metro Area.

For those who suffer from the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, commonly known as “enlarged prostate,” Alate Health offers a less invasive alternative to surgery. Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a safe and effective approach performed by Dr. Andrew Doe to alleviate symptoms such as urinary frequency and urgency, weak urine stream, and difficulty starting or stopping urinating.

PAE is safe and clinically proven, covered by most insurance and Medicare. There are fewer risks than with surgery, and when compared to other less invasive treatments, PAE is the only one clinically shown to improve sexual function.

For more information, or to schedule your appointment, please call (346) 534-6156.

What is prostate artery embolization (PAE)?

Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive medical procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. It is clinically proven to alleviate the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

It is performed by Dr. Andrew Doe who inserts a catheter through a tiny incision in the groin or wrist. It is then guided by X-ray imaging to the prostatic arteries on each side of the prostate gland. Once in position, microparticles are injected to partially block the flow of blood to the prostate, causing it to shrink and reduce symptoms.

PAE is ideal for men who wish to avoid transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) surgery and its associated risks, which include sexual dysfunction and urinary incontinence. It is also an excellent alternative to medications and their associated side effects.

PAE is clinically shown to reduce the urinary symptoms of BPH and can help men improve their sexual function. The procedure is performed under moderate sedation and you can return home the very same day.

How do I know if PAE is right for me?

We invite you to consult with us at Alate Health. We will assess your symptoms and medical history, and can provide you with more information to help you determine if you are a candidate for PAE.

If you are a candidate, a healthcare provider will conduct a thorough assessment, including imaging tests like MRI or CT. These will help to visualize the prostate and the surrounding blood vessels in preparation for your procedure.

How effective is PAE?

The success rate varies by patient, but for most, it is a highly effective solution. PAE is clinically shown to be successful at reducing the symptoms associated with BPH and improving the quality of life for patients following the procedure. The effects can be long lasting, with many enjoying the benefits for years after treatment.

Factors that can influence the success of PAE include the size of the prostate and your anatomy, specifically the arteries that supply blood to the gland. Having regular follow-up visits with your healthcare provider is helpful to monitor the long-term success of the PAE procedure.

What should I expect during the PAE procedure?

The procedure typically lasts between one to three hours, depending on the specific anatomy of your prostate arteries and other individual health factors. It is performed under “twilight” sedation, which means that you will remain awake but relaxed. After the procedure, you will be monitored for a period of time and then you may return home.

Most PAE patients can resume normal activities within a few days. Symptom relief begins to happen over the first few days and will significantly improve over the next several weeks. It is important that you follow post-procedure instructions, which may include taking prescribed medications and coming in for follow-up visits.

Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is offered at Alate Health Interventional Radiology Clinic, conveniently located on Hermann Drive in Houston.

We serve patients from Houston, Houston Heights, Montrose, Deer Park, Pasadena, Bellaire, Pearland and the surrounding areas of Texas.