New Prostatic Artery Embolization Guidelines Released by Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR)

The Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) has issued updated clinical guidance regarding prostatic artery embolization (PAE) for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate. These guidelines, released during Men’s Health Month, are published in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology (JVIR).

BPH represents a common condition affecting men, with prevalence rates reaching up to 60% in men over 60 years old and 80% in those over 80. The condition often leads to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) like frequent urination, urgency, nocturia, a weak urine stream, and incomplete bladder emptying. Such symptoms can significantly impair quality of life, causing issues like sleep disturbances, reduced productivity, depression, and sexual dysfunction.

PAE, a minimally invasive technique, offers a promising alternative to surgical procedures such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for men suffering from BPH-related LUTS. The newly published guidance captures recent evidence reinforcing PAE’s viability as an effective treatment option, a view supported by the American Urologic Association.

“Prostatic artery embolization provides a minimally invasive and effective treatment approach for men with an enlarged prostate,” stated Dr. Saher S. Sabri, President of SIR. “This guidance advocates a team-based care approach, facilitating access to this treatment while minimizing risks associated with traditional surgery.”

The aim of the guidance is to assist healthcare professionals in evaluating BPH patients comprehensively and to provide evidence-based recommendations for diagnostic and pre-procedural imaging. It also outlines suitable treatments adapted to individual diagnoses.

The guidelines were developed by an SIR-appointed writing group comprising interventional radiologists and experts in PAE, in collaboration with the SIR Guidelines and Statements Division. The document emphasizes interventional radiology’s integral role in long-term patient care and supports the adoption of minimally invasive procedures within standard treatment protocols.