Human cadaveric specimen study of the prostatic arterial anatomy: implications for arterial embolization

Abstract

Purpose: To describe and illustrate the prostatic arterial anatomy from human cadaveric specimens, highlighting implications for prostatic arterial embolization.

Materials and methods: Dissection of 18 male pelves from white adults 35-68 years old was performed in the anatomy laboratory. Arterial branches were identified according to standard dissection technique using a 20-diopter magnifying lens for the prostatic sector. The branches were colored with red acrylic paint to enhance contrast and improve visualization.

Results: Two main arterial pedicles to the prostate from each hemipelvis were identified in all cadaveric specimens: the superior and inferior prostatic pedicles. The superior prostatic pedicle provides the main arterial supply of the gland and provides branches to both the inferior bladder and the ejaculatory system. The inferior prostatic pedicle distributes as a plexus in the prostatic apex and anastomoses with the superior pedicle. This pattern of prostatic arterial distribution was constant in all cadaveric specimens. In contrast, the origin of the superior prostatic pedicle was variable from different sources of the internal iliac artery.

Conclusions: The description and illustration of the prostatic arterial anatomy, as demonstrated by this cadaveric study, may provide useful information and guidance for prostatic arterial embolization.

Keywords: BPH; IPA; PAE; benign prostatic hyperplasia; internal pudendal artery; prostatic arterial embolization.