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日本語Interventional radiology · Städtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe
Prostatic artery embolization in Karlsruhe
A catheter treatment for benign prostate enlargement.
Difficulty urinating may be caused by benign prostate enlargement. Prostatic artery embolization (PAE) may be an option for selected patients. A urological assessment of the symptoms is required beforehand.
- Procedures
- Catheter treatment of prostate arteries
- Objective
- Relieve discomfort due to benign enlargement
- Selection
- Together with Urology
When is it worth consulting on the PAE?
A PAE can be considered for incriminating complaints by a Benign prostatic enlargement. Whether there is a drainage impairment and which treatment makes sense is examined urologically. Frequent urination or a weak urinary ray can also have other causes.
Before a decision, previous medication, examinations, prostate findings and your expectations are discussed. PAE for benign enlargement is not a treatment for prostate cancer.
What happens during prostatic artery embolization?
A fine Catheter is guided to the prostate arteries via a vascular access. Small particles are introduced under image control in order to reduce the blood supply in a targeted manner. As a result, the tissue can lose volume in the course of the process.
Vascular anatomy and connections to neighbouring organs must be assessed carefully. Not every vascular arrangement allows safe and complete treatment. If treatment works, symptoms improve over time rather than necessarily immediately.
Medical references: [1]
How does the PAE perform compared to other procedures?
Medication and urological procedures remain important alternatives. Compared with transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), the European urological guideline describes, on average, smaller improvements in certain symptoms and measurements and more frequent repeat treatment after PAE. These differences should be discussed during counselling.
For this purpose, access via the vessels can be a suitable option for certain patients. The selection should be made jointly by urology and experienced Interventional radiology. There is no procedure that is the best choice for every patient.
Medical references: [2]
Risks and follow-up
Possible are pain, temporary discomfort with urination, blood in the urine, infections or urinary retention. In addition, there are risks of vascular access, the contrast agent and radiation exposure. An unintentional Embolization of neighboring organs can damage tissue.
Follow-up assesses symptoms and bladder emptying. Persistent problems may require further treatment. If you cannot urinate after a procedure or develop a fever, seek prompt medical assessment.
Frequently asked questions to Prostatic artery embolization
Does a PAE Replace the Urological Exam?
No. A urological assessment identifies the cause of symptoms and helps select patients for PAE. Follow-up care is also coordinated.
Is a PAE Permanently Effective?
A sustained improvement is possible, but cannot be promised. Complaints may persist or return; renewed Treatments are possible.
Your next step
Personal advice in Karlsruhe
Urological doctor’s letters, information on previous medications and interventions, existing Medical imaging and the results of previous tests on bladder emptying are helpful.
Please also bring your current medication list and tell us about any known allergies. The reception team will explain which additional documents are needed and how imaging can be transferred securely. Only change your medication after consulting a doctor.
Privately insured and self-paying patients
Head physician’s office
0721 974-1901Consultations and costs ↗Treatment location: Städtisches Klinikum Karlsruhe, Moltkestraße 90, 76133 Karlsruhe. Two beds are available for short inpatient monitoring and interventional care. The type and duration of your stay depend on the procedure and your health.
An enquiry does not guarantee that an intervention will be offered. A personal consultation considers benefits, risks and alternatives. In an acute medical emergency, call 112.
Medical references & additional information
- CIRSE: Patient Information on the PAE (PDF) ↗
- EAU: Guideline on lower urinary tract complaints, section PAE ↗
Editorially responsible: PD Dr. med. Jonathan Nadjiri · Editorial update: 26 September 2026. These texts were prepared with AI assistance using the linked medical references. They do not replace individual medical counselling.