Patient Resources

Before Your PAE Procedure

• Medical Clearance: Complete any required lab work or cardiac clearance
• Medication Review: Discuss all medications with Dr. Sabbah's team
• Blood Thinners: May need to be stopped 5-7 days before procedure
• Fasting: No food or drink for 6 hours before procedure
• Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you home
• Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothes

What to Bring

• Photo identification and insurance cards
• List of current medications and allergies
• Comfortable clothes for after the procedure
• Any previous imaging studies or medical records

Medications to Discuss

May Need to Stop Temporarily:

• Blood thinners (Warfarin, Plavix, Eliquis)
• Aspirin (unless prescribed for heart condition)
• NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen)
• Certain diabetes medications

Continue Taking:

• Blood pressure medications
• Heart medications
• BPH medications (alpha-blockers)
• Other chronic medications as directed

Arrival and Check-in

• Arrival Time: Typically 1-2 hours before procedure
• Registration: Complete paperwork and insurance verification
• Pre-procedure Assessment: Vital signs, IV placement, medical review
• Consent Process: Final questions and procedure consent
• Preparation: Change into hospital gown, remove jewelry

During the Procedure

• Duration: 1-3 hours depending on anatomy
• Sedation: Conscious sedation for comfort
• Monitoring: Continuous vital sign monitoring
• Communication: You can communicate with the team throughout

What to Expect

• Positioning: Lying flat on procedure table
• Access Site: Small puncture in groin or wrist
• Local Anesthesia: Numbing medication at puncture site
• Imaging: X-ray guidance throughout procedure
• Contrast Dye: May cause warm sensation
• Embolization: Delivery of particles to prostate arteries

Comfort Measures

• Sedation medication for relaxation
• Pain medication as needed
• Warm blankets for comfort
• Music or conversation to help you relax
• Frequent communication with medical team

Immediate Recovery (First 24 Hours)

• Observation Period: 2-4 hours monitoring in recovery
• Vital Signs: Regular monitoring of blood pressure and pulse
• Access Site Care: Pressure dressing and position restrictions
• Hydration: Encouraged to drink fluids
• Discharge: Most patients go home same day

First Week Recovery

• Activity: Light activities, avoid heavy lifting (>10 lbs)
• Driving: Can resume when comfortable (usually 24-48 hours)
• Work: Most patients return within 2-3 days
• Showering: Can shower 24 hours after procedure
• Exercise: Light walking encouraged, avoid strenuous exercise

What's Normal After PAE

• Mild pelvic discomfort for 1-3 days
• Urinary frequency may temporarily increase
• Minor bruising at catheter site
• Fatigue for 24-48 hours
• Low-grade fever (less than 101°F)

When to Call the Office

• Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
• Severe or worsening pain
• Inability to urinate
• Significant bleeding from access site
• Signs of infection (redness, swelling, drainage)
• Severe nausea or vomiting

About the Procedure

Q: How long does PAE take?

A: The procedure typically takes 1-3 hours, depending on your prostate anatomy and the complexity of the blood vessel structure.

Q: Will I be awake during the procedure?

A: Yes, you'll receive conscious sedation to keep you comfortable and relaxed, but you'll be able to communicate with the medical team.

Q: Is PAE painful?

A: Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Local anesthesia numbs the access site, and sedation keeps you comfortable throughout.

Q: Can I eat before the procedure?

A: No, you'll need to fast (no food or drink) for 6 hours before the procedure to ensure your safety during sedation.

About Recovery

Q: When will I see results?

A: Some patients notice improvement within days, while others may take several weeks. Maximum benefit is typically achieved within 3-6 months.

Q: Will I need a catheter?

A: Unlike surgery, PAE typically doesn't require a catheter. In rare cases, a temporary catheter may be needed if swelling occurs.

Q: When can I return to work?

A: Most patients return to work within 2-3 days. If you have a physically demanding job, you may need a few extra days.

Q: Can I drive after PAE?

A: You cannot drive on the day of the procedure due to sedation. Most patients can resume driving within 24-48 hours when they feel comfortable.

Insurance Coverage

Commonly Covered Plans:

• Most PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans
• Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans
• Many HMO and IPA plans
• Workers' compensation cases
• Some Medicaid plans (varies by state)

Pre-Authorization Process

Our experienced staff will help with:

• Insurance verification and benefit confirmation
• Pre-authorization submission and follow-up
• Appeals process if initial authorization is denied
• Documentation of medical necessity
• Coordination with your referring physician

Self-Pay Options

For Patients Without Insurance Coverage:

• Transparent pricing provided upfront
• No hidden fees or surprise charges
• Competitive rates compared to surgical alternatives
• Detailed cost breakdown available upon request

Payment Plans

• Flexible payment arrangements
• Extended payment terms when appropriate
• Credit card and financing options
• Assistance with medical financing applications