Prostate Artery Embolisation relieves urinary symptoms of Benign Prostate Hyperplasia

By the age of 60, most men will have suffered from the symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) which is widely known as an enlarged prostate. These symptoms include difficulty starting the urinary stream, frequent urination particularly at night and a slow flow of urine. Though several non-cancerous prostate problems exist, BPH is the most commonly occurring condition of the prostate.

Prostate Artery Embolisation, developed and conducted by interventional radiologists, is a minimally invasive procedure which effectively treats urinary symptoms of an enlarged prostate. Prostate Artery Embolisation is performed as a day procedure, with most patients able to go home on the same day. It allows men to return to their usual activities almost immediately as no lengthy recovery period is required post-procedure. Conducted under local anasthetia, Prostate Artery Embolisation stands out as a worthwhile contender amidst the various treatment options that are invasive with higher associated risks and side effects.

The treatment method makes use of a thin tube or catheter which is inserted into the groin or wrist by means of a tiny incision. The tube is fed to the femoral or radial artery and then guided to the appropriate artery under x-ray supervision. The tube is directed to the artery which supplies blood to the prostate and inert particles are used to create a temporary blockage, preventing the supply of blood to the organ. Once the prostate is starved of nourishment it begins to shrink in size and ultimately relieves pain and discomfort to the patient.

This delicate and specialised procedure is performed in South Africa by interventional radiologist Dr Andrew Lawson. He operates from Netcare Sunninghill in Johanesburg who have accommodated the rise of Prostate Artery Emobilisation with their state of the art equipment suited to the treatment.  Patients can expect little to no pain during the procedure which takes up to 3 hours.

Prostate Care comprises of Dr Andrew Lawson and his team of skilled professionals who have been trained to minimize risks and ensure patient comfort at all times. The procedure is conducted exclusively through Netcare Sunninghill hospital located in Johannesburg.