Abstract
Purpose of Review
Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a promising new treatment option for men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Our goal is to review the data on PAE with regard to outcomes, risks versus benefits, and safety.
Recent Findings
Current data suggests that PAE is safe and effective for men with symptomatic BPH. The two most robust randomized controlled trials comparing PAE with TURP both found comparable short-term results with regard to improvements in symptoms. However, the side effects of PAE were higher than those of TURP. There remain ongoing randomized controlled trials comparing the two modalities of treatment.
Summary
Though the largest randomized controlled trials comparing these two modalities of treatment of BPH are still underway, current data suggest PAE may be a promising, safe, and effective treatment option for men with symptomatic BPH. Additionally, PAE can be safely performed on larger prostates of any size and is generally performed via a single, femoral artery puncture under local anesthesia. Therefore, it is particularly appealing for patients with prostate glands > 80 g and who are poor candidates for general anesthesia.
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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance
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This article is part of the Topical Collection on BPH-Related Voiding Dysfunction
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Fainberg, J., Chughtai, B., Lee, R. et al. Prostate Artery Embolization: Current Status 2018. Curr Bladder Dysfunct Rep 13, 21–24 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11884-018-0463-6
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11884-018-0463-6