For millions of men, an enlarged prostate—also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)—can seriously impact quality of life. From frequent nighttime trips to the bathroom to difficulty starting urination, BPH can cause both physical discomfort and emotional frustration. Thankfully, there’s a breakthrough treatment option that doesn’t involve invasive surgery or a long hospital stay. It’s called Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE), and it’s now available through Kansas City Interventional Radiology (KCIR), a division of Kansas City Urology and Oncology (KCUC).
What Is PAE?
Prostatic Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure used to treat BPH by reducing the size of the prostate. Instead of surgically removing prostate tissue, PAE works by blocking blood flow to specific parts of the prostate. This is done by inserting a catheter through a tiny incision, usually in the groin or wrist, and guiding it to the arteries that supply blood to the prostate. Once there, the interventional radiologist releases tiny particles that restrict blood flow, causing the enlarged prostate tissue to shrink over time.
How Does Prostatic Artery Embolization Work?
The procedure is performed using real-time imaging technology to ensure precision and safety. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:
- Local anesthesia is applied—no general anesthesia is necessary.
- A small catheter is inserted into the femoral or radial artery.
- Using X-ray guidance, the catheter is navigated to the prostatic arteries.
- Microspheres (tiny particles) are injected to block the blood flow.
- The procedure is repeated on both sides of the prostate.
- Once complete, the catheter is removed and the small incision is bandaged.
The reduced blood supply causes the prostate to gradually shrink, relieving symptoms of BPH. Most men notice significant improvement within days to weeks following the procedure.
Why Minimally Invasive Matters
Minimally invasive treatments like PAE offer multiple advantages over traditional surgery, particularly for men looking to avoid lengthy recoveries and potential complications.
- No general anesthesia
- Reduced risk of bleeding or infection
- Fewer side effects such as incontinence or sexual dysfunction
- Minimal downtime – patients usually go home within a few hours
- Quick recovery – most people return to normal activities within a day or two
Unlike traditional surgery, which may require hospitalization and a catheter for several days, PAE is an outpatient procedure, which makes it especially appealing for men with busy lives or those looking for an alternative to surgery.
KCIR: Outpatient Interventional Radiology in Kansas City
Kansas City Interventional Radiology (KCIR) is a dedicated division of KCUC focused on bringing the latest in minimally invasive, image-guided treatments to patients in a comfortable, outpatient setting. We’re proud to offer cutting-edge options for not only enlarged prostate, but also uterine fibroids, varicoceles, and hemorrhoids.
Our office-based interventional radiology suite is equipped with state-of-the-art imaging technology and designed with your comfort in mind. From check-in to discharge, everything is streamlined to reduce wait times and improve outcomes.
Because KCIR is part of KCUC, KCIR offers the same Patient-First care model our patients have come to expect. That means:
- Compassionate, personalized care that puts your needs first
- A calm, supportive setting that’s far less intimidating than a large hospital
- A holistic approach that values your emotional and physical well-being
- Easy access to a wide network of board-certified urologists, oncologists, and radiologists
At KCIR, we treat you like a person, not a number. You get all the expertise and medical advancements of a hospital, without the stress that often comes with hospital visits.
What Are the Benefits of PAE?
In addition to being less invasive and more convenient than surgery, PAE offers several important benefits:
- Effective symptom relief – Most men experience reduced urinary frequency, better flow, and less urgency.
- Preserves sexual function – Unlike some surgical treatments for BPH, PAE has a lower risk of causing erectile dysfunction or retrograde ejaculation.
- Long-term results – Studies show sustained symptom improvement for many years after the procedure.
- High satisfaction rates – Many patients report feeling better within just a few days and are pleased with the outcome.
Because PAE doesn’t involve removing tissue or altering the prostate’s anatomy, it’s an excellent option for many men who may not be good candidates for surgery.
Who Is a Candidate for Prostatic Artery Embolization?
If you have an enlarged prostate and are experiencing any of these symptoms, you may be a candidate for PAE:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Weak urine stream or trouble starting urination
- A feeling that your bladder never fully empties
- A sudden, urgent need to urinate
If you want to avoid surgery or haven’t responded well to medications in the past, PAE may be the answer. The best way to find out if PAE is right for you is to talk to your doctor or schedule a consultation with one of our specialists at KCUC or KCIR.
Patient-First Care at KCUC
At KCUC, we believe great healthcare starts with how you’re treated. As a division of KCUC, KCIR is yet another example of how we’re bringing our patient-first care philosophy to Kansas City. Along with KCPI (Kansas City Proton Institute) we’re bringing cutting-edge medicine to the heart of the country and making it more convenient and accessible to our patients. Our Patient-First Care model focuses on reducing stress, facilitating healing, and providing a better overall experience. From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll notice a difference:
- Friendly, knowledgeable staff who take time to answer your questions
- A warm, welcoming environment that promotes comfort and privacy
- Direct access to your care team with shorter wait times
- A care plan tailored specifically to you, not a one-size-fits-all approach
We’re not just treating your condition—we’re treating you. And that means we’re committed to providing a level of care that’s personal, convenient, and centered around your needs and goals.
Compassionate Care Close to Home
With over 30 locations across Kansas and Missouri, KCUC is proud to offer comprehensive urology and oncology care close to home. From prostate health to cancer care, we’re here to support you with advanced treatment options and compassionate, patient-centered service.
By choosing KCIR for PAE and other procedures, you get access to leading-edge interventional radiology care in a convenient outpatient setting—with faster recovery, less risk, and greater comfort.
If you’d like to learn more about KCUC or interventional radiology at KCIR, contact one of the over 30 KCUC Urology and Oncology locations throughout Kansas and Missouri and schedule an appointment to see one of our board-certified urologists or oncologists. At KCUC, you see the best in KC… and we see you too!
