Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)
A minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). PAE relieves urinary symptoms by reducing prostate size — without cutting, catheters, or traditional surgery.
Why Choose PAE with Dr. Drabkin?
Dr. Michael J. Drabkin is among the highest-volume PAE physicians in the United States, performing more than 500 procedures annually. With over 20,000 total image-guided procedures in his career, his experience ensures excellent outcomes and safety.
*Among the highest-volume PAE physicians in the United States; figures reflect current practice data.
What is Prostate Artery Embolization?
PAE is a minimally invasive procedure that treats BPH by blocking blood flow to the prostate, causing it to shrink. Through a tiny pinhole in the left wrist artery, a catheter is guided to the prostate arteries, where microscopic particles are injected. The result: improved urinary flow and symptom relief without invasive surgery. Patients go home the same day after about 2 hours of recovery.
Benefits of PAE
- No surgical incision — just a tiny pinhole in the wrist
- Same-day discharge
- Quick recovery — return to activities the next day
- Preserves sexual function compared to traditional surgical procedures
- Outpatient, office-based procedure
- Procedure time is usually about 1 hour
Who is a Candidate?
PAE is ideal for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) who have bothersome urinary symptoms, or who want to avoid surgery and prolonged catheterization. A consultation with Dr. Drabkin includes history, imaging, and labs to confirm eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
The procedure typically takes about 1 hour. Patients recover in our office for about 2 hours before discharge.
Patients go home the same day. Most men return to most activities the next day. Incereased urinary frequency, urinary urgency, and mild burning with urination may occur during the first few days.
PAE has a lower risk of complications compared to surgery. Major side effects are rare, and sexual function is generally preserved, unlike many traditional surgical procedures.
80–90% of patients experience significant symptom improvement, with durable results in most men.
It generally takes between 2 weeks and 2 months to feel the improvement in urinary symptoms. The maximum effect can take up to 6 months.
Many patients continue to have good symptom relief at 5 to 10 years after the procedure.
Ready to discuss Prostate Artery Embolization?
Dr. Michael J. Drabkin is among the highest-volume embolization specialists in the U.S., with extensive experience in PAE and other minimally invasive procedures.