How to "Get Out of Trouble" During Prostatic Artery Embolization

Abstract

Prostatic artery embolization can be an extremely challenging procedure often giving the operator the sense of "being in trouble." This feeling can occur during different stages of the procedure including initial identification of the prostatic artery, catheterization of the prostatic artery, and prevention of non-target ischemia via extra-prostatic anastomoses during embolization. This brief guide provides techniques developed from prior experience with these frustrating situations that could potentially help the prostatic artery embolization operator "get out of trouble."

Keywords: BPH; PAE; Prostatic artery embolization; benign prostatic hyperplasia.