New Jersey Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)
A minimally invasive option to relieve urinary symptoms from an enlarged prostate.
Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is an advanced, image-guided procedure that can improve urinary symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — without traditional surgery or a hospital stay.
At NJPAE, our team offers this specialized procedure in collaboration with Jersey Urology Group and a board-certified interventional radiologist.
What Is PAE?
What Is Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE)
Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Through a tiny incision in the wrist or groin, a thin catheter is guided into the arteries that supply the prostate. Using X-ray guidance, an interventional radiologist injects microscopic particles to reduce blood flow to the prostate.
As blood flow decreases, the prostate gradually shrinks over the following weeks. This can improve symptoms such as:
Difficulty starting urination
Weak urine stream
Most patients begin noticing improvement within the first few weeks, with continued benefits over the next 1–2 months.
Frequent urination, including at night
Feeling that the bladder doesn’t empty completely
Benefits of PAE
Big Relief, Small Procedure.
PAE is an alternative to traditional surgery for enlarged prostate and offers several potential advantage
Minimally Invasive
Tiny skin incision (about 3mm)
in the wrist or groinNo large surgical cuts
Outpatient Procedure
Usually performed without an overnight hospital stay
Many patients go home a few hours
after the procedure
Faster Recovery
Most patients resume normal activities within a few days
Less downtime than many surgical options
Preserves Sexual Function
Designed to improve urinary symptoms while minimizing impact on sexual function
Lower risk of incontinence compared with some surgeries
What to Expect With PAE
Understanding the procedure from start to finish.
Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure with a smooth recovery. From start to finish, you’ll know what to expect—quick outpatient care, minimal discomfort, and symptom relief that improves over time.
During the
Procedure:
PAE is performed by an interventional radiologist in a specialized procedure suite.
A small catheter is inserted into an artery in the wrist or groin using local anesthesia.
Under X-ray guidance, the catheter is placed into the arteries supplying the prostate.
Tiny particles are injected to reduce blood flow to the prostate.
The procedure typically takes about 1–2 hours, but may be longer depending on anatomy.
After the
Procedure:
Most patients go home the same day.
You’ll be monitored for a short period before discharge.
A dressing is placed over the small puncture site in the wrist or groin.
Recovery & Symptom Improvement:
Mild pelvic or urinary discomfort is possible for a few days and usually managed with medication.
Many patients begin to notice symptom improvement within 1–2 weeks.
Prostate shrinkage and symptom relief can continue to improve over several months.
Individual results and recovery times can vary.
Your physician will review what to expect in your specific situation.
Is PAE Right for Me?
Learn the signs, and why a personalized medical evaluation is essential.
PAE may be considered for men with bothersome urinary symptoms due to an enlarged prostate. It is not appropriate for everyone, and a full medical evaluation is required.
PAE may be an option if you:
Have moderate to severe urinary symptoms from BPH
Have tried or cannot tolerate medications for enlarged prostate
Want to avoid or are not a good candidate for traditional prostate surgery
Prefer a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure with a shorter recovery
Important note:
Only a urologist and interventional radiologist can determine whether PAE is appropriate for you after reviewing your symptoms, medical history, prostate size, and imaging.
Meet Dr. Joel Wolf, Interventional Radiologist
Dr. Joel Wolf is a board-certified interventional radiologist with specialized training in minimally invasive, image-guided procedures throughout the body, including prostate artery embolization (PAE).
He completed medical school at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine in 2015, followed by a diagnostic radiology residency at Albert Einstein College of Medicine’s Jacobi Medical Center and a fellowship in interventional radiology at Montefiore Medical Center.
Dr. Wolf performs a variety of advanced procedures, including:
Prostate artery embolization (PAE)
Uterine fibroid embolization
Hemorrhoid artery embolization
Limb-salvage procedures for peripheral arterial disease
He has trained with national leaders in PAE and is committed to providing patients with safe, effective, and minimally invasive options for treating enlarged prostate.
Contact & Scheduling
Ready to Take the
First Step?
or Call 609-927-8746