Prostate Artery Embolization in Turkey

What Is the Prostate and Why Does It Enlarge?

The prostate is a small gland that is unique to men. It is located just behind the bladder and surrounds the urethra, the tube that excretes urine. The prostate of a younger man is roughly the size of a walnut. However, it naturally enlarges with age. Urinary discomfort may result from this development, which is a common and non-cancerous condition.

The term benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) refers to this condition. While it's not life-threatening, it can significantly affect quality of life. Many men with BPH experience:

• A frequent urge to urinate
• Trouble starting urination
• A weak or interrupted urine stream
• The feeling that the bladder isn’t empty
• Waking up multiple times during the night to urinate

How Does Prostate Artery Embolization Work?

Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is designed to shrink the prostate and relieve the pressure it places on the urinary system. The procedure works by blocking the arteries that supply blood to the prostate. Without a strong blood flow, the prostate tissue gradually shrinks, reducing its size and easing urinary symptoms. An interventional radiologist is a specialist physician who performs this minimally invasive procedure. It doesn’t require general anesthesia or a hospital stay, which makes it a convenient option for many patients.

What to Expect During the PAE Procedure

PAE is typically done in an interventional radiology suite, rather than a traditional operating room. Here’s a simple breakdown of how it works:

• 1. Accessing the Artery: The doctor makes a small incision in the groin area to insert a thin catheter into the femoral artery.
• 2. Navigating to the Prostate: Using real-time imaging, the doctor guides the catheter through blood vessels to reach the arteries that feed the prostate.
• 3. Embolization: Once the prostate arteries are located, the doctor injects tiny particles to block these vessels. Over time, the prostate shrinks as a result of the decreased blood flow.
• 4. Repeat on Both Sides: Since the prostate typically gets blood from both sides of the body, the process is usually done on both sides.

The entire procedure usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours, and most patients can return home on the same day.

When Do Symptoms Improve After PAE?

Improvement doesn’t happen overnight, but most men notice gradual relief of symptoms within a few weeks to three months after the procedure. As the prostate continues to shrink over time, the pressure on the urethra is reduced, and urination becomes easier. Many men find that they sleep better, don’t rush to the bathroom as often, and regain control of their urinary habits, all without undergoing invasive surgery.

Who Is a Good Candidate for PAE?

Prostate artery embolization is a great option for men who:

• Have moderate to severe symptoms of BPH
• Want to avoid surgical procedures
• Are not able to have surgery because of other health concerns
• Are concerned about the side effects of medications or traditional surgery

However, not every man is a candidate. A doctor will perform imaging tests to make sure your anatomy is suitable for the procedure. An evaluation may include a pelvic MRI or CT angiography to check the size and blood supply of your prostate.

Concerns After Prostate Artery Embolization

Prostate artery embolization is generally safe, but there are a few concerns to be aware of. Some men may notice slight bruising or discomfort at the catheter site, along with mild pelvic cramping for a few days. Rarely, the embolization particles may affect nearby organs, though this is uncommon with experienced doctors. Within a few days, the majority of patients resume their regular activities after their quick recovery.

Advantages of Prostate Artery Embolization

There are several reasons why more men are choosing PAE over traditional prostate surgery:

• Minimally invasive: No cuts or removal of tissue
• No general anesthesia required
• Same-day discharge in most cases
• Preserves sexual function and continence
• Faster recovery than surgery
• Reduced risk of long-term complications

Prostate Artery Embolization Costs in Turkey

Turkey's high-quality and reasonably priced healthcare services have made it a popular medical tourism destination. The cost of prostate artery embolization in Turkey is significantly lower than in other Western countries, while offering care in state-of-the-art facilities with experienced interventional radiologists. Patients often combine treatment with a relaxing recovery in Turkey’s beautiful cities, making it a cost-effective and convenient choice.

Conclusion

Prostate artery embolization is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatment for men struggling with an enlarged prostate. It offers long-term symptom relief without surgery, helping men regain control over their bladder and their life. If you’re dealing with BPH and looking for a modern, low-risk solution, talk to your doctor about whether PAE might be right for you.