Struggling With An Enlarged Prostate? Here’s The Surgery-Free Solution You Need (Image Credits: iStock)
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, is a common condition that affects nearly 50 per cent of men over the age of 60. The condition often comes with symptoms like difficulty initiating urination, weak or interrupted urine flow, frequent night-time urination (nocturia), and a persistent feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. These symptoms can disrupt daily life, leading many patients to seek medical intervention.
Dr Dharav Kheradia, Consultant Neuro and Vascular Interventional Radiologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, explains, "BPH is not life-threatening, but its symptoms can severely affect a patient’s quality of life. Proper diagnosis is crucial because these symptoms can overlap with more serious conditions like prostate cancer."
To get an accurate diagnosis of the condition, doctors rely on advanced diagnostic tools such as digital rectal examinations (DRE), ultrasound, Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) tests, uroflowmetry, and the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). These tests help them decide the best possible treatment solution per the patient's condition.
Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)
For many years, surgery has been the standard treatment for BPH. However, certain patients, especially those with cardiovascular issues or on blood-thinning medications, may not be suitable candidates for traditional surgical options. Hence, in that case, Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE), a minimally invasive procedure is preferred.
“PAE involves inserting a tiny catheter into the femoral artery and releasing embolic particles to block blood flow to specific areas of the prostate,” Dr Kheradia explains. “This reduces the prostate gland’s size, alleviating symptoms without the risks associated with open or even minimally invasive surgeries.”
The Advantages Of PAE
Studies show that PAE provides symptom relief comparable to traditional surgical methods but with fewer complications. Patients undergoing PAE typically resume normal activities within a few days, with long-term effectiveness reported in over 80 per cent of cases. A 2021 study published in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology reveals that PAE patients reported a 70-90 per cent reduction in symptoms within three months of the procedure.
Dr Kheradia shared a real-life example: “We treated a 70-year-old man with moderate BPH who experienced frequent nocturia and urinary difficulties. Due to his cardiovascular comorbidities, he was not a candidate for surgery. PAE was performed successfully, and within six weeks, his symptoms improved by 85-90 per cent. He resumed his routine shortly after, with no complications."
The minimally invasive nature of PAE makes it a safer alternative, especially for elderly patients or those with underlying health conditions. Unlike traditional surgery, it involves no general anaesthesia, reduces the risk of infections, and allows same-day discharge in most cases.
As medical advancements evolve, procedures like PAE exemplify the shift toward patient-centric, less invasive solutions. Dr Kheradia shares, “PAE represents a significant breakthrough in BPH care, offering hope and relief to patients who might otherwise face limited options. Its success is a testament to the innovation in modern medicine.”
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