Prostatic Artery Embolization: An Option for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

Less invasive alternatives to transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) have been developed for patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and refractory symptoms. In this randomized, noninferiority trial, Swiss researchers compared one such alternative — prostatic artery embolization (PAE; performed under local anesthesia by an interventional radiologist) — with TURP (performed under spinal or general anesthesia) among 103 men with refractory BPH symptoms.

The primary outcome was change in the 35-point international prostate symptoms score (IPSS) from baseline to 12 weeks. Mean reductions in IPSS after PAE and TURP were similar (−9.2 vs. −10.8); although this difference isn't considered important clinically, it failed to establis…