What is the difference between PAE and TURP for BHP?
If you’ve been diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate, you may be exploring treatment options to relieve frustrating urinary symptoms. Two commonly discussed procedures are Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) and Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE). While TURP has long been considered the gold standard, many men today are choosing PAE as a minimally invasive alternative because of the more favorable temporary side effect profile.
Understanding the differences between these treatments, and how they may impact your recovery, comfort, and quality of life can help you make a confident, informed decision.
What is Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)?
Prostate Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure performed by an interventional radiologist to treat symptoms of BPH. Rather than surgically removing prostate tissue, PAE works by reducing blood flow to the prostate, causing it to gradually shrink over a few months.
During the procedure, a small catheter is inserted through the wrist or groin artery. Using real-time imaging, the physician guides the catheter to the arteries supplying the prostate and delivers small plastic beads to block excess blood flow. As the prostate shrinks, pressure on the urethra is reduced, leading to improved urinary symptoms.
PAE is performed on an outpatient basis, typically requires moderate or deep sedation, and allows patients to return home the same day.
Common reasons men seek treatment for BPH
BPH is a common condition that affects many men as they age. Symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen over time, significantly impacting daily life and sleep quality. Common reasons men seek treatment include:
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Difficulty starting urination
- Incomplete bladder emptying
- Waking multiple times at night to urinate (nocturia)
- Reduced quality of life despite medications
When medications no longer provide adequate relief or cause unwanted side effects procedural options like TURP or PAE may be recommended.
Options for treating BPH: PAE vs. TURP
Both PAE and TURP aim to relieve urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, but they differ significantly in approach, invasiveness, and recovery.
TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate)
TURP is a surgical procedure performed by a urologist in which prostate tissue is removed through the urethra. It typically requires spinal or general anesthesia and a hospital stay. While effective for symptom relief, TURP carries risks associated with surgery, including bleeding, infection, and sexual side effects such as retrograde ejaculation or erectile dysfunction.
PAE (Prostate Artery Embolization)
PAE offers a non-surgical alternative for appropriate candidates. Because it does not involve cutting or removing prostate tissue, the general side effects from PAE are as follows:
- Minimal risk of bleeding
- No surgical incision or stitches
- Improvement or no impact on sexual function
- Shorter recovery time
- Outpatient convenience
Many men who are not ideal surgical candidates, or wishing to avoid surgery altogether, find Prostate Artery Embolization to be an appealing option.
Why many patients choose PAE over TURP
Patients often prefer PAE because it aligns with modern priorities in healthcare: less invasiveness, faster recovery, and personalized care. Key reasons men choose PAE over TURP include:
- Minimally invasive approach with a tiny access point instead of surgery
- No general anesthesia, which is especially important for older adults or those with other medical conditions
- Lower risk of sexual side effects, including erectile dysfunction and ejaculation changes
- Same-day discharge and quicker return to normal activities
- Customized treatment, guided by advanced imaging and individual anatomy
While TURP may still be appropriate for some patients, PAE provides an effective option for men seeking symptom relief without the downsides of traditional surgery.
When to talk to a healthcare provider
If urinary symptoms from BPH are interfering with your daily life, sleep, or overall well-being, it may be time to speak with a specialist. You should consider a consultation if:
- Medications are no longer effective or cause side effects
- You want to avoid surgery or anesthesia
- You have other health conditions that make surgery higher risk
- You’re interested in minimally invasive treatment options
An evaluation with an interventional radiologist can help determine whether PAE is appropriate for your specific condition and prostate anatomy.
Why choose Summit Interventional Radiology?
At Summit Interventional Radiology, patient comfort, safety, and outcomes are our top priorities. Our team has been working together for many years and has performed hundreds of PAE procedures for patients from Texas and elsewhere. We specialize in minimally invasive, image-guided procedures that offer effective results with less disruption to your life.
Patients choose Summit Interventional Radiology because we provide:
- A highly trained, board-certified interventional radiologist with extensive experience in PAE
- Advanced imaging technology for precise, personalized treatment planning
- Outpatient convenience, allowing you to recover comfortably at home
- Individualized care, with treatment plans tailored to your symptoms, anatomy, and goals
- A compassionate, patient-first approach focused on education, reassurance, and long-term results
If you’re exploring alternatives to TURP and want to learn whether Prostate Artery Embolization is right for you, Summit Interventional Radiology is here to help. Our team is committed to delivering innovative care that helps you feel better, without unnecessary surgery.
Schedule a consultation today to take the next step toward lasting relief.