Your Trusted Enlarged Prostate (BPH)Treatment and Prevention Experts In South Dakota
What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Benign prostatic hyperplasia, commonly called an enlarged prostate, is a non-cancerous growth of the prostate gland that puts pressure on the urethra and bladder. As the prostate enlarges, it can make urination difficult, disrupt sleep, and interfere with daily life. BPH becomes increasingly common with age and, left untreated, can lead to more serious bladder and kidney complications.
If you have concerns about kidney function related to BPH, you can learn more about our Kidney Disease & Dialysis Access treatments.
Symptoms of an Enlarged Prostate
Typical signs include:
- Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Difficulty starting urination
- Dribbling after urination
- Sudden, strong urges to urinate
- Feeling that the bladder hasn’t fully emptied
- Straining to urinate
Risk Factors & Causes of an Enlarged Prostate
Age 50 and older
Family history of prostate problems
Obesity or metabolic syndrome
Type 2 diabetes and heart disease
Sedentary lifestyle
Low physical activity
Diagnosis of BPH
At Black Hills Cardiovascular, our approach includes:
- Review of your medical history and symptom questionnaire (IPSS)
- Physical evaluation
- PSA blood test and urinary flow studies
- Prostate imaging, such as ultrasound or MRI, to map arterial anatomy before treatment
Treatment of BPH
- Alpha-blocker and 5-alpha-reductase medications
- Bladder training
- Pelvic floor exercises
- Lifestyle and fluid management changes
When medications stop working or aren’t the right fit, prostate artery embolization offers a minimally invasive option that shrinks the prostate by targeting the blood vessels that feed its growth — without surgery or a hospital stay.
Read more about our Vascular Treatments. If you’ve been told surgery is your only option for an enlarged prostate, consider getting a Second Opinion with our minimally invasive specialists.
What to Know About Prostate Artery Embolization
How PAE Works
- Performed as an outpatient procedure
- A thin catheter is guided through the wrist or groin to the prostatic arteries using imaging
- Small particles block blood flow to the enlarged prostate tissue, causing it to shrink over time
- No incisions, no general anesthesia, no hospital stay
Benefits of PAE
- Minimally invasive with a fast return to normal activity.
- Preserves sexual function, avoiding risks like retrograde ejaculation associated with surgery.
- An option for men who aren’t good candidates for surgery, including those on blood thinners.
- Reduces urinary frequency, urgency, and nighttime trips to the bathroom.
Who Is a Candidate?
- Men with moderate to severe BPH symptoms affecting quality of life.
- Symptoms that persist despite medication.
- Men who want to avoid the risks or downtime of surgery.
- Medically cleared by an interventional specialist after imaging confirms suitable prostate artery anatomy.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Most patients go home the same day.
- Light activity can resume within 1–2 days.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for about a week.
- Full symptom improvement typically develops over 2–3 months as the prostate gradually shrinks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon will I feel relief after prostate artery embolization?
Some patients notice improved urinary flow within a few weeks, while most experience significant symptom relief over 2–3 months as the prostate shrinks and inflammation subsides.
Is prostate artery embolization painful?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and light sedation. Most patients feel minimal discomfort, with only mild pressure or soreness at the catheter access site.
When can I resume daily activities after the procedure?
Most patients return to light activity within 1–2 days. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for about one week, and follow your physician’s guidance on resuming sexual activity.Most patients return to light activity within 1–2 days. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for about one week, and follow your physician’s guidance on resuming sexual activity.
Can the procedure be repeated?
Yes. If symptoms persist or the prostate continues to grow, repeat embolization or adjunct therapies may be considered.
Can prostate artery embolization prevent the need for surgery?
Yes. For many men with BPH, PAE is a minimally invasive alternative to procedures like TURP, offering meaningful symptom relief with less downtime and a lower risk of sexual side effects.
Is prostate artery embolization covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by insurance provider. Many patients can use insurance or FSA/HSA funds, and our team can help verify coverage and discuss self-pay options.
Who is a good candidate for prostate artery embolization?
Men with moderate to severe urinary symptoms from an enlarged prostate, who have tried medication without adequate relief, and who want to avoid traditional surgery, may be good candidates for the procedure.
Why Choose Black Hills Cardiovascular?
Our team combines advanced vascular and interventional expertise with a holistic, patient-centered approach. We collaborate with urologists and primary care providers to create a personalized plan for enlarged prostate and BPH symptom relief.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’re ready to explore prostate artery embolization or other advanced treatments for an enlarged prostate, contact Black Hills Cardiovascular today.
Call (605) 503‑8192 or send us a contact form to schedule a consultation.
