Prostate artery embolisation

A highly trained interventional radiologist, who is experienced in advanced embolisation techniques, performs the procedure. They'll typically make a single puncture in the groin or, occasionally, the wrist or arm. This is done under local anaesthetic. They will then insert thin, hollow tubes, known as catheters, into both the right and left prostate arteries under direct X-Ray guidance. These prostatic arteries are then closed using 250-400 micron-sized embolic particles.

Prostate artery embolisation takes approximately two hours to perform and you can expect to be discharged after four hours provided you are fit and able to leave. Men needing to travel out of the area or those who are less fit may require an overnight stay in hospital. Men who plan to fly home may do so after four to five days (short-haul) or seven to ten days (long haul).

Your consultant will explain prostate artery embolisation and answer any questions you might have. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. There is a slight risk of injury to the bladder, rectum and genitals because of their close proximity to the prostate. Your consultant will explain these to you.

Post-procedural pain is usually mild to moderate and complications reported to date have been rare and mostly involve minor bruising of the groin. This discomfort can be managed by simple anti-inflammatory and pain killing oral medications. After having your prostate artery embolisation, your urology consultant will let you know when you can get back to your usual routine. You'll most likely be called back for a post-op appointment to discuss the effectiveness of the embolisation.