Are you exploring Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) treatment options, and researching prostatic artery embolization (PAE) and Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)? Each procedure can provide effective BPH relief, but also comes with unique considerations. Here's the critical information to consider when comparing PAE vs TURP.

What's the Difference Between PAE vs TURP?

When you're suffering from BPH symptoms, you may be able to find relief with PAE and/or TURP, but different patients will be better suited for one medical procedure over the other. PAE treatment, available at the Georgia Prostate Institute, is a minimally invasive medical procedure that blocks blood supply to the prostate gland, causing it to shrink. It is an outpatient procedure performed without general anesthesia. TURP, however, is a surgical procedure that removes enlarged prostate tissue. It's performed using general anesthesia, typically neccessitating an overnight hospital stay.

Risks and Benefits

Since PAE a minimally invasive procedure, any associated side effects, including pelvic pain or pain with urination, are minimal and tempory. The recovery period is also shorter than after a surgical procedure, and, according to currently available data, PAE effectively relieves symptoms of BPH for at least six years.

In contrast, patients recovering from TURP will need to spend between one and three days in the hospital after surgery. Catheterization for at least 24 hours will also be necessary. TURP also comes with a greater risk for serious and longer-lasting side effects, including bleeding and retrograde ejaculation (in which semen flows back into the bladder instead of out through the urethra.)

Cost of PAE vs TURP

Both PAE and TURP should be covered by insurance, but some out of pocket expenses will still be likely. Typically, PAE is less expensive than TURP as it doesn't require overnight hospital stays or the cost of general anesthesia.

Choosing The Right Treatment for BPH

Before deciding between PAE vs TURP, consider:

• Your current age and health
• The severity of your BPH symptoms, along with the degree to which your prostate is enlarged
• Any existing or prior medical conditions that could impact your ability to withstand surgery

Do you need help choosing your best treatment option for an enlarged Prostate? To explore your Prostatic Artery Embolization candidacy, reach out to our interventional radiology team  and request a consultation.