Last Updated on December 2, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir
Learn who is not a candidate for prostate artery embolization. Our guide covers crucial risk factors and contraindications to consider.
Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure. It helps many men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). But, not all patients are suitable candidates for this treatment. This is because of health conditions and individual anatomical factors.
Certain preexisting conditions can make PAE unsuitable. These include active prostate cancer, renal insufficiency, severe atherosclerosis, or significant urinary tract infections. Also, men with small prostates may not benefit from this procedure.
As medical experts, we know how important it is to evaluate each patient’s unique condition. PAE is a valuable treatment option for BPH. But, it’s key to identify who can benefit from it and who may need other treatments.
Key Takeaways
- PAE is not suitable for patients with active prostate cancer.
- Renal insufficiency can make PAE unsuitable.
- Severe atherosclerosis is a contraindication for PAE.
- Significant urinary tract infections may prevent PAE.
- Men with small prostates may not benefit from PAE.
Understanding Prostate Artery Embolization
Learning about Prostate Artery Embolization is key for those thinking about it for BPH. PAE is a new way to treat Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) in men.
What is Prostate Artery Embolization?
PAE is a method where interventional radiologists cut off blood to the prostate. This makes the prostate smaller and relieves BPH symptoms. A top urologist calls it a “game-changer” for BPH patients.
By cutting off blood, PAE lessens pressure on the urethra. This improves urine flow and eases BPH symptoms. The procedure is done under local anesthesia and takes a few hours.
How PAE Differs From Other BPH Treatments
PAE is different from surgeries like TURP because it doesn’t remove prostate tissue. It shrinks the prostate by cutting off its blood supply. This makes PAE a good choice for those who don’t want surgery or can’t have it.
PAE also stands out from non-surgical treatments like meds. While meds help manage symptoms, PAE offers a lasting fix for BPH.
General Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for PAE, you need a BPH diagnosis and symptoms that really bother you. You must also have a prostate size that can be treated with PAE. And you can’t have certain health issues that might make the procedure risky.
Our skilled interventional radiologists will help you decide if PAE is right for you. They’ll check your situation and see if PAE fits your needs.
Patients With Active Prostate Cancer
People with active prostate cancer usually can’t get Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE). PAE is mainly for treating Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous prostate enlargement. It works by cutting off the prostate’s blood supply to shrink it and ease urinary issues.
Why Cancer Patients Are Excluded
Patients with active prostate cancer can’t get PAE because it’s not for cancer. “Prostate cancer needs treatments that target the cancer cells,” a top urologist suggests. “PAE doesn’t treat cancer and might delay needed treatments.”
Those with prostate cancer need treatments like surgery, radiation, or active surveillance. PAE’s goal of shrinking the prostate doesn’t match cancer treatment goals.
When Cancer Patients Might Consider PAE
Some patients treated for prostate cancer and facing BPH symptoms might get PAE. “For those who’ve beaten cancer but have BPH, PAE could help,” says an interventional radiology expert. “But it depends on the patient’s health and cancer history.”
It’s key for those with prostate cancer history to talk to their doctor about BPH treatment. The right plan will look at their cancer history, health, and BPH symptoms.
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As medical tech improves, PAE’s uses might grow. But for now, active prostate cancer patients usually can’t have it. We keep up with new research to offer the best treatments for our patients.
Individuals With Kidney and Vascular Issues
When it comes to PAE for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), we look closely at kidney and vascular health. We check many factors to see if PAE is safe and works well.
Renal Insufficiency Concerns
People with kidney disease face special challenges with PAE. The treatment uses contrast agents, which can harm kidneys more in those with kidney problems. We do detailed tests to figure out the risk.
Those with severe kidney disease might face bigger risks, like kidney damage from the contrast. We then think about the benefits and risks of PAE. We look for safer options for these patients.
Severe Atherosclerosis Complications
Vascular disease, like severe atherosclerosis, can make PAE tricky. Atherosclerosis narrows and hardens arteries, making it hard to reach the prostate arteries. We use top-notch imaging to see how bad the disease is and plan the best way to treat it.
If severe atherosclerosis is a problem, we might choose a different treatment or adjust PAE to lower risks. Our main goal is to find the most effective treatment safely.
We carefully check each patient’s health and weigh the risks and benefits. This helps us choose the best treatment for those with kidney and vascular issues.
Urological Conditions That Prevent PA
Urological issues are key in deciding if Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is right for you. Some conditions can make PAE not work well or not be safe for patients.
Significant Urinary Tract Infections
Active or recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a big worry for those thinking about PAE. We make sure patients don’t have UTIs before the procedure. This is to avoid serious infections after the treatment.
Small Prostate Size Limitations
The size of the prostate gland is also important for PAE. Patients with very small prostates might not see much benefit from PAE. We check the prostate size early on to see if PAE will help.
Urethral Strictures and Bladder Issues
Urethral strictures and bladder problems can also affect PAE’s success and safety. Issues like urethral narrowing or bladder issues can make the procedure harder or lead to problems after. We look at these conditions carefully to find the best treatment for each patient.
In summary, many urological conditions can stop or make PAE hard. We work with patients to check their conditions and find the best treatment.
Who Is Not A Candidate For Prostate Artery Embolization: Anatomical Factors
Some people might find PAE hard or not right for them because of their body’s shape. How the body is built is key in deciding if PAE can work.
Challenging Vascular Anatomy
The shape of blood vessels is very important. Complex or variant vascular anatomy can make PAE tough. It’s hard for doctors to find and block the prostate arteries well.
- Variations in the origin or course of the prostatic arteries
- Small or tortuous vessels that are hard to access
- Presence of significant atherosclerotic disease
Previous Pelvic Surgeries
People who’ve had surgery in their pelvis might face problems with PAE. Previous surgeries such as prostate surgery or other pelvic interventions can make PAE harder.
Our team looks at how much surgery has changed the blood vessels to see if PAE is a good choice.
Arterial Occlusions and Abnormalities
Arterial blockages or odd shapes can also be a problem. Conditions like severe atherosclerosis or arterial thrombosis can stop PAE from working right.
- Occlusions that prevent access to the prostatic arteries
- Abnormalities that increase the risk of procedural complications
We check these things carefully to find the best treatment for our patients.
Patient-Specific Exclusion Factors
Some health factors can make Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) risky or unsuitable for patients. We look at different factors to see if PAE is right for each person.
Age and Health Considerations
Age and health are key in deciding if PAE is safe. Older patients or those with health issues might face more risks. We check each patient’s health to make sure PAE’s benefits are worth the risks.
- Older age can mean more health problems.
- Poor health can make recovery harder.
- Other serious health issues might make PAE not safe.
Medication Contraindications
Some medicines can affect PAE or raise the chance of problems. For example, anticoagulant medicines might need to be changed or stopped before PAE. Our team helps patients manage their medicines for the procedure. A study on the National Center for Biotechnology Information website shows managing anticoagulation therapy is key for PAE.
Allergy to Contrast Materials
PAE uses contrast materials to see the prostate arteries. Patients allergic to these might risk an allergic reaction. We check for allergy risks and look for ways to lower it.
In summary, factors like age, health, medicines, and allergies are important for PAE. By looking at these, we can make sure our patients get the best care.
Alternative Treatments For PAE Non-Candidates
PAE might not work for everyone. Luckily, there are other ways to ease BPH symptoms. If PAE isn’t right for you, there are other good options to try.
Medication Options
Medicine can be a good choice instead of PAE. We have different medicines to help with BPH. These include:
- Alpha-blockers: These help the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck relax. This makes it easier to pee.
- 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors: These shrink the prostate by stopping a male hormone from being made.
- Combination therapy: This is using both alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors together. It can help more than one medicine alone.
Surgical Alternatives
If medicines don’t work, surgery might be an option. We offer several surgical choices, including:
- Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP): This removes prostate tissue that blocks urine flow.
- Laser Surgery: It uses a laser to remove or destroy extra prostate tissue.
- Open Prostatectomy: This surgery removes part or all of the prostate gland.
Lifestyle Modifications
Changing your lifestyle can also help with BPH symptoms. We suggest:
- Dietary changes: Eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is good.
- Exercise regularly: Being active can improve your health.
- Fluid management: Drinking less before bed can help you not get up to pee as much at night.
Exploring these options can help those who can’t have PAE find relief from BPH symptoms. We aim to find the best treatment for you.
Conclusion
Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is a new way to treat Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). It’s less invasive than old surgeries. But, it’s not for everyone.
We talked about who can’t get PAE. This includes people with prostate cancer, kidney or blood vessel problems, and some urological issues. Also, the shape of the prostate and other health factors play a role.
Knowing who can’t get PAE is key for good treatment plans. Our team works hard to pick the right patients for PAE. If PAE isn’t right for you, there are other ways to help with BPH symptoms.
At our place, we aim to give top-notch care. We support patients from all over. If you’re dealing with BPH and don’t know what to do, talk to our experts. They’ll help figure out the best treatment for you.
FAQ
What is Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) and how does it work?
PAE is a minimally invasive procedure for treating Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). It cuts off blood to the enlarged prostate, reducing its size and easing symptoms.
Who is not a candidate for Prostate Artery Embolization?
Those with active prostate cancer, urinary tract infections, small prostate, urethral strictures, bladder issues, kidney problems, severe atherosclerosis, and past pelvic surgeries may not qualify for PAE.
Can patients with prostate cancer undergo PAE?
Usually, those with active prostate cancer can’t have PAE. But, in some cases, they might be considered for it based on their condition and new research.
How do kidney problems affect PAE eligibility?
Kidney issues can make PAE risky. Our team checks kidney function before deciding if PAE is safe for a patient.
What are the alternative treatments for BPH if I’m not a candidate for PAE?
If PAE isn’t an option, treatments like medications, surgeries, and lifestyle changes are available. Our experts will find the best fit for each patient.
Can patients with a history of pelvic surgery undergo PAE?
Past pelvic surgeries might affect PAE eligibility. Our radiologists will look at the patient’s vascular anatomy and health to decide if PAE is right.
How does age affect PAE eligibility?
Age is a factor in PAE eligibility. Our team will consider the patient’s health and medical history to see if PAE is suitable.
What are the risks associated with PAE for patients with certain medical conditions?
Patients with conditions like kidney problems or severe atherosclerosis face higher risks with PAE. Our experts will discuss the risks and benefits with each patient.
Are there any medication contraindications for PAE?
Some medications might not be safe for PAE. Our team will review the patient’s medications to ensure safety before the procedure.
What if I’m allergic to contrast materials used in PAE?
Allergies to contrast materials are a concern for PAE. Our experts will assess the patient’s allergy history to minimize allergic reactions.
References
- Carnevale, F. C., Moreira, A. M., Antunes, A. A., Srougi, M., & de Assis, A. M. (2013). Prostatic artery embolization to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia: how I do it. Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology.https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6966395/
- De Assis, A. M., Carnevale, F. C., Antunes, A. A., et al. (2019). Prostate embolization: patient selection, clinical management and expected results. CVIR Endovascular. https://cvirendovasc.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s42155-019-0049-1/
- Comparing prostatic artery embolization to surgical and minimally invasive treatments for benign prostatic hyperplasia: a systematic review. (2023). BMC Urology. https://bmcurol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12894-023-01397-1/
