Use of 70- to 150-μm Radiopaque Spherical Embolics for Prostatic Artery Embolization

Abstract

This retrospective report describes treatment of 21 patients who underwent prostatic artery embolization using 70- to 150-μm radiopaque microspheres for lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia. Seventeen patients (81%) received successful bilateral prostatic artery embolization. At a mean follow-up of 42 days (range, 25-59 days), patients showed improvement in International Prostate Symptom Score (n = 11; mean = 10.6; P = .001), quality of life score (n = 17; mean = 2.0; P = .02), and International Index of Erectile Function (n = 17; mean = 9.3; P = .01). The mean prostate volume reduction was 28 mL (16.2%; P = .003). Nontarget embolization occurred twice, resulting in 1 minor adverse event of hematospermia.