Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE) at UPNT: A Non-Surgical BPH Solution
Minimally Invasive BPH Treatment in Arlington, TX — Serving North Texas
If you’re dealing with the frustrating symptoms of an enlarged prostate (BPH), but want to avoid surgery or implants, Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE) at Urology Partners of North Texas (UPNT) offers a proven, non-surgical alternative.
Performed by Dr. Matthew Schwenke, a board-certified interventional radiologist with over 1100 successful PAE procedures, this outpatient treatment provides long-lasting symptom relief with minimal recovery time and a low risk of side effects.
What Is Prostatic Artery Embolization?
PAE is a minimally invasive procedure that shrinks the prostate by reducing its blood supply. Using advanced imaging, a tiny catheter is inserted through the wrist or groin to deliver microscopic particles into the arteries feeding the prostate. This reduces blood flow and causes the prostate to gradually shrink, relieving pressure on the urethra.
Benefits of PAE:
- No incisions or general anesthesia
- Outpatient procedure
- Quick recovery — back to daily activities in 1–2 days
- Preserves sexual function in most men
- Ideal for men with large prostates or high surgical risk
Why Choose UPNT for PAE in North Texas?
What Sets Us Apart
Details
Experience
Dr. Schwenke has performed 1100+ PAE procedures
Collaborative Approach
Integrated care between interventional radiology and urology
Convenient Location
PAE offered at our Arlington, TX center, serving North Texas
Advanced Imaging and Technique
High-precision, image-guided embolization
Full BPH Treatment Suite
We offer all treatment options — not just PAE
What to Expect Before, During, and After PAE
Before Your Procedure
- Consult with a UPNT urologist to confirm your diagnosis
- Imaging and testing to determine if PAE is right for you
- Meet with Dr. Schwenke to plan the procedure
During the Procedure
- Local anesthesia + light sedation
- Tiny catheter inserted in wrist or groin
- Procedure takes 1–2 hours
- You’ll go home the same day
After the Procedure
- Light activity within 24–48 hours
- Gradual symptom relief over 2–3 months
- Follow-up imaging to monitor results
Is PAE Right for You?
- PAE may be a great choice if you:
- Have moderate to severe BPH symptoms
- Want to avoid traditional surgery or implants
- Have been told you’re not a good surgical candidate
- Prefer a low-risk, outpatient solution
- Want to preserve sexual and urinary function
Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) for BPH: A Minimally Invasive Breakthrough
IR Centers at UPNT – Leading the Way in PAE with IR Centers of America
For men suffering from an enlarged prostate (BPH), Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) is a
revolutionary, minimally invasive treatment that shrinks the prostate by reducing its blood supply,
leading to dramatic symptom relief without surgery.
At the IR Centers at Urology Partners of North Texas (UPNT), a state-of-the-art
Interventional Radiology (IR) facility, Dr. Matthew Schwenke, a specialist in Interventional
Radiology, performs this cutting-edge procedure. IR is a medical specialty that uses advanced
imaging (X-ray, MRI, and ultrasound) to perform minimally invasive procedures with pinpoint
accuracy.
Collaboration with IR Centers of America – Unparalleled Expertise in PAE
The IR Centers at UPNT are part of IR Centers of America, a nationwide network of elite
interventional radiologists. When Dr. Schwenke performs PAE, he has the full backing of this
expert team, ensuring:
- Real-time collaboration – Specialists across the country can review live images as he performs the procedure.
- Second opinions on demand – Instant access to leading PAE experts if needed.
- The most advanced techniques – A network that constantly shares best practices for superior outcomes.
Find out if PAE is right for you!
What is Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)?
PAE is a non-surgical procedure that shrinks the prostate by reducing its blood flow. Using
advanced imaging, a specialist inserts a tiny catheter into the arteries supplying the prostate
and injects microscopic particles to temporarily block the blood flow. Over time, the prostate
shrinks, relieving BPH symptoms.
- No cutting, no hospital stay
- Faster recovery than traditional surgeries
- Safe for men who are not candidates for surgery
Interested in PAE? Schedule a consultation today!
How Well Does PAE Work? Let’s Talk Results!
PSS Score: Measuring Real Symptom Improvement
Doctors use the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) to measure how severe a
man’s BPH symptoms are:
IPSS Score
Severity
0–7
Mild symptoms
8–19
Moderate symptoms
20–35
Severe symptoms
What happens after PAE? Studies show:
- Men with severe symptoms (20+) often drop to mild (under 7) within months
- Average symptom improvement: 10+ point reduction in IPSS within 12 months
- Better sleep, stronger urine flow, and less urgency—without surgery
PAE in Men Who Can’t Urinate (Urinary Retention Cases)
Can’t urinate without a catheter? PAE can help!
A major study showed that 92% of men in complete urinary retention (requiring a catheter)
were able to urinate normally after PAE—many within 10 days of the procedure!
Want to regain control? Call today to see if PAE is right for you.
Step-by-Step: How PAE Works
Step 1
Preparation & Imaging
- Local anesthesia (you stay awake, but comfortable)
- A tiny catheter is inserted into an artery (through the wrist or groin)
Step 2
Blocking Blood Flow to the Prostate
- Using X-ray guidance, the catheter is directed to the arteries feeding the prostate
- Microscopic beads are injected, blocking blood flow and causing the prostate to shrink
Step 3
Recovery & Symptom Relief
- No stitches, no long hospital stay—most men go home the same day
- Symptoms improve within days to weeks as the prostate shrinks
Ready for relief? Call now to schedule your consultation with Dr. Schwenke.
Why Choose PAE Over Traditional BPH Surgeries?
Feature
PAE (Prostate Artery Embolization)
TURP (Traditional Surgery)
Invasive?
❌
No—minimally invasive
✅
Yes—surgical
Hospital Stay?
❌
None—go home same day
✅
1+ night in hospital
Catheter Needed?
❌
Rarely
✅
Often for a few days
Sexual Side Effects?
❌
Minimal risk
✅
Higher risk of retrograde
ejaculation
Recovery Time?
✅
Fast—back to normal in weeks
❌
Weeks of recovery
UPNT’s IR Centers offer the most advanced BPH treatments, including PAE. Call to
learn more!
Why Choose UPNT’s IR Centers for PAE?
- Expert Care from Dr. Matthew Schwenke – A leader in minimally invasive treatments
- Part of IR Centers of America – Nationwide expertise at your doctor’s fingertips
- Live Image Collaboration – Rare, high-tech approach few centers can provide
- State-of-the-Art Facilities – Performed in our high-tech IR Centers
- Comprehensive BPH Solutions – From PAE to advanced robotic surgeries, we tailor the best treatment for you
Call today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Schwenke.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How soon will I feel better after PAE?
Many men notice improvement within days to weeks, and results continue improving
over several months.
Will I need a catheter after PAE?
Most men do not need a catheter, and those who were in urinary retention often regain
normal urination within 10 days.
Will PAE affect my sex life?
No! PAE has minimal risk of ED or sexual side effects.
How long do PAE results last?
Studies show long-term symptom relief, with many men avoiding further procedures for
years.
Is PAE covered by insurance?
Yes, most major insurance plans cover PAE, including Medicare.
Still have questions? Call our office today
Take the Next Step – Find Out if PAE is Right for You!
- Minimally invasive, no surgery required
- Go home the same day, quick recovery
- One of the most advanced BPH treatments available