Easing the Burden of Benign Prostate Enlargement

As men age, benign prostate enlargement, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), becomes increasingly prevalent. This condition can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including frequent urination, pain, and a diminished quality of life. The Stuttgart Clinic is now offering a modern,minimally invasive alternative to conventional surgery: prostate embolization.

Understanding Prostate Embolization

Prostate embolization is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat BPH. It involves blocking the arteries that supply blood to the prostate using tiny particles. This process causes the prostate tissue to shrink, alleviating pressure on the urethra and reducing associated symptoms.

The Prevalence and Impact of BPH

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a widespread urological condition affecting a meaningful portion of the male population. While not inherently hazardous, BPH requires appropriate management to prevent potential complications. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, BPH affects approximately 50% of men between 51 and 60 years of age, and up to 90% of men over 80.

Frequently enough wiht the increase in size of the prostate, a narrowing of the urethra goes hand in hand, explains professor Dr. Götz Martin Richter, the medical director of the Clinic for Diagnostic and interventional Radiology in the Stuttgart Clinic.

Professor Dr. Götz Martin Richter

This narrowing can lead to difficulties in urination, reduced urine flow, and increased frequency, especially at night. It can be problematic if the urine can no longer flow properly, Professor Richter notes. Retained urine can foster bacterial growth,leading to infections and potential kidney damage.

Prostate Embolization: A Less Invasive Approach

Traditional treatment options for BPH range from medication in the early stages to surgical interventions aimed at reducing the size of the prostate. prostate embolization offers a modern, effective, and gentle alternative. Guided by radiological imaging,interventional radiologists inject minuscule beads into the prostate’s blood vessels via a thin catheter,effectively blocking blood flow. This causes the prostate to shrink over time, relieving pressure on the urethra and alleviating symptoms such as urinary difficulties and frequent urges.

Advantages of minimally Invasive Treatment

Prostate embolization stands out as a particularly gentle and safe treatment option. As a minimally invasive procedure, it carries a lower risk of complications and side effects, such as incontinence, compared to traditional surgery. Furthermore, it typically does not require general anesthesia, contributing to a faster recovery time.

Advanced Technology Enhances precision

The Stuttgart Clinic utilizes state-of-the-art angiography systems equipped with advanced software, including artificial intelligence, to optimize visualization of the patient’s pelvic vascular system.

During the intervention at the prostate, we can use a three -dimensional map of the vessels. This allows us to carry out the prostate embolization even faster and safer, says Professor Richter.

Professor Dr. Götz Martin Richter

this technology allows for more precise and efficient embolization procedures, enabling patients to return home shortly after the treatment.

Stuttgart Clinic: A Center of Excellence for Prostate Therapy

Prostate embolization demands a high level of expertise. The Stuttgart Clinic has established itself as a leading center for this advanced intervention.

We carry out around 120 prostate bolizations every year at the Stuttgart Clinic.Our experiance and expertise and thus the success rate are vrey high, says Professor Richter about the prosperous work of his team.

Professor dr. Götz Martin Richter

Their extensive experience translates to exceptional success rates and improved patient outcomes.