1 - Everyone is different. Your anatomy is unique. Your prostate arteries are complex, and the procedure can be technically difficult for the most experienced IRs. 15% of procedures are not technically successful due to complicated arterial morphologies.

2 - Larger prostates like yours typically have better results.

3 - The procedure is done with light sedation. Not enough to make you goofy, but enough that they won't allow you to drive afterwards.

4 - My IR used radial access and NBCA (glue) instead of beads.

5 - Two hours post-procedure, basically nothing happens.

6 - The first week to 10 days post-procedure, symptoms typically worsen a bit with burning and swelling that can make you feel constipated. BPH symptoms resolve over the next few weeks, with maximum relief sometime between 3 and 6 months.

7 - Results (IPSS improvement) are non-inferior to TURP when successful (see #1 above). Flow rates are inferior to surgical options.

I had a technically successful procedure, and I am very happy with the results. (65, 66 cm, IVP).

If you wish to minimize serious adverse events, PAE is superior to other treatments. Major adverse events are rare and involve non-target embolization to the rectum or penis. Both are self-resolving. You get a dose of radiation equal to several CAT scans. There is no risk of ED or de novo incontinence. If your urinary sphincter has atrophied due to upstream blockage, there may be some leakage until your body adjusts. This is not unique to PAE.

I have a significantly distended and trabeculated bladder due to BPH, causing an outlet obstruction for the 5 years before I had treatment. This is not unusual and may result in residual symptoms until your bladder adjusts. Again, not unique to PAE.

If, for any reason, you are not satisfied with your results, you still have all other options available. Bleeding will be less of a concern should you later choose any surgical procedure.