Post-Procedure Care and Recovery: A Guide for Patients After Prostate Artery Embolization

Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that offers relief from the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) with minimal downtime and discomfort. While PAE is known for its excellent outcomes and rapid recovery, proper post-procedure care is essential to ensure optimal results and a smooth recovery process. In this blog post, we provide a comprehensive guide to post-procedure care and recovery for patients who have undergone PAE at MTVIR.

Immediate Post-Procedure Care

Following PAE, patients will be monitored in recovery to ensure their safety and comfort. Patients can expect to return home the same day as the procedure, but they will need to arrange for transportation as they will not be able to drive themselves.

Risk factors for PAD are smoking, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, diabetes, high cholesterol, and being above the age of 60. Both men and woman are equally affected by PAD. However, African Americans have a greater risk of PAD.

Managing Discomfort

It is normal to experience some discomfort or mild pain after PAE, including pelvic pain, urinary urgency, or frequency. Patients can manage these symptoms with over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as directed by their physician.

Hydration and Rest

Staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest are important aspects of the recovery process. Patients should drink plenty of fluids, such as water or clear liquids, to stay hydrated and help flush out any residual contrast dye used during the procedure. Resting at home and avoiding strenuous activities for the first few days after PAE will help the body recover and heal more quickly.

Follow-Up Care

Patients will typically have a follow-up appointment with their interventional radiologist two weeks after PAE to assess their progress and address any concerns.

Monitoring for Complications

While complications after PAE are rare, it’s essential for patients to be aware of potential signs of complications and seek medical attention if they occur. Symptoms such as severe pain, fever, chills, or difficulty urinating should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately, as they may indicate a more serious issue that requires prompt medical attention.

Return to Normal Activities

Most patients can resume normal activities, including work and light exercise, within a few days to a week after PAE. However, it’s essential to listen to the body and avoid overexertion during the recovery period. Patients should gradually increase their activity level as tolerated and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for at least a few weeks after the procedure.

Long-Term Follow-Up

While many patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms shortly after PAE, it’s important to continue monitoring for long-term benefits and potential recurrence of symptoms. Patients should follow their physician’s recommendations for ongoing follow-up appointments and any additional treatments or interventions that may be necessary to maintain their prostate health.

If you have any questions or concerns about post-procedure care and recovery after PAE, please don’t hesitate to contact us at MTVIR. Our team is here to provide personalized support and guidance every step of the way. Contact Us Today!