New Delhi, Jun 2 (IANS): With rising cases of prostate enlargement among elderly men, surgeons have suggested the problem can be tackled in a much easier way if the patient undergoes Prostatic Artery Embolisation (PAE), as it ensures fast recovery.

According to experts, the procedure helps improve urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), without the risk of sexual side effects, which is the biggest advantage.

"The Embolization, unlike open surgeries, is performed through a small puncture in the groin. A catheter is inserted through the artery and directed toward the prostate. Once the catheter is positioned in the artery supplying blood to the prostate, tiny particles are injected that plug up the artery, blocking blood flow," said Pradeep Mulley, Head Interventional Radiologist, Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj.

Muley explained: "The process is then repeated on the other side, most commonly through the same original puncture. The procedure can take anywhere from 1-4 hours, depending on the location and size of the prostatic arteries. The procedure blocks the blood flow to the areas of the prostate that are most affected by BPH, resulting in death, or necrosis, of isolated areas and make the prostate softer."

Once the embolisation of both prostatic arteries is finished, the catheter is removed and the patient can start walking in next 6-8 hours, unlike other surgeries which take weeks for the recovery of the patient.

According to recent medical surveys, 80 per cent of men will develop BPH in India in the coming years and more than 40 per cent of men who develop an enlarged prostate will need surgery to correct symptoms from enlarged prostate.

Vishal Malhotra, a general surgeon at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, said the situation is such that one in four men in the age group of 50-55 has some signs and symptoms of BPF.

Suggesting some natural measures against prostate enlargement, Malhotra said: "Pumpkin seeds can prevent prostate enlargement. The seeds have unsaturated fatty seeds. The powdered seeds can be added to the food or milk. It can even be taken with honey."

Among other natural ways, he said prostate infection can be reduced by taking garlic and goldenseal. Some fruits such as juniper berries prevent swelling in the prostate glands.

"Tomatoes are also helpful in curing prostate diseases. It contains antioxidants, which can prevent prostate enlargement," said Malhotra.