[Prostate artery embolization (PAE) : Technique and results].

CLINICAL/METHODICAL ISSUE: In the treatment of the benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) medical and surgical therapies have been established.

STANDARD RADIOLOGICAL METHODS: Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is an innovative endovascular technique that might close the gap between both these procedures.

PERFORMANCE: The PAE procedure is safe and has a low incidence of side effects. The efficacy of PAE has been proven for medium sized and large sized glands as well as for intravesical protrusions.

ACHIEVEMENTS: The complex mechanism of PAE carries the potential to cure lower urinary tract symptoms as well as to retard the progression of the hyperplasia.

PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS: Data concerning the long-term efficacy are missing at present.