Urologie pro praxi 2/2026

Prostatic artery embolization in the treatment of LUTS/BPH – a practical review for urologists and interventional radiologists

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the most common urological conditions in elderly men and often leads to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) with a significant impact on quality of life. Prostatic artery embolization (PAE) has emerged as a minimally invasive endovascular treatment option performed under local anaesthesia, offering symptom relief in selected patients with an increased anaesthetic risk or a preference to avoid conventional surgery. Current evidence, including randomized trials and meta-analyses, shows that PAE significantly improves LUTS, quality of life and urinary flow, although the desobstructive effect is generally inferior to transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), and the long-term need for reintervention is higher. On the other hand, PAE is associated with fewer perioperative complications, shorter hospitalization and a more favourable sexual side‑effect profile compared to TURP. This review summarizes contemporary indications, expected outcomes and safety data of PAE from the perspective of both urologists and interventional radiologists, with an emphasis on patient selection and practical collaboration between specialties

Keywords: lower urinary tract symptoms, benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostatic artery embolization, minimally invasive treatment, interventional radiology.