Leading Experts in PAE | MTVIR

PAE vs TURP vs HoLEP: What’s the Difference (and How Do You Choose)?

If you’ve been researching enlarged prostate treatments, you’ve probably seen a lot of acronyms: TURP, HoLEP, Rezūm, UroLift—and now PAE.

It can start to feel like you need a medical dictionary just to pick the next step.
This article is a plain-English comparison of three major options men commonly weigh:

PAE (Prostate Artery Embolization)
TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate)
HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate)

The core difference

TURP and HoLEP remove or carve out prostate tissue through the urethra. PAE reduces blood flow to the prostate so it shrinks over time—no urethral instrumentation for tissue removal.

TURP in a nutshell

TURP has been a long-standing surgical standard for BPH. It often produces strong symptom relief, especially for men with significant obstruction.

Tradeoffs can include:

Higher invasiveness than PAE
Typical surgical/anesthesia considerations
Potential sexual side effects depending on the individual and technique

HoLEP in a nutshell

HoLEP is a laser-based approach that removes obstructing tissue. It’s often considered for larger prostates and can be very effective.

Tradeoffs are similar “surgery category” considerations: anesthesia, recovery, and potential side effects.

PAE in a nutshell

PAE is performed by an interventional radiologist using image guidance. It’s minimally invasive and typically outpatient. It can be especially appealing to men who want to avoid surgery or who may not be ideal surgical candidates.

The evidence base keeps growing. Comparative studies have shown PAE offers good longer-term results in properly selected patients; some trials note symptom improvements may be less pronounced than TURP, but with different recovery/side-effect profiles.

So how do you choose?

This is the part most articles skip: the “right” choice depends on what you value most. You might lean toward PAE if you want:

A non-surgical route
Outpatient treatment
A procedure focused on shrinking the prostate gradually

You might lean toward TURP or HoLEP if you want: A surgical approach with strong, immediate mechanical relief You’re a strong surgical candidate and prefer that pathway

*This article is educational and not medical advice. Always consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

The next best step: A real evaluation

Google can’t tell you your prostate size, your arterial anatomy, or the true driver of your symptoms. A consultation can.

At MTVIR in Dallas, Dr. Travis Van Meter will review your situation and help you understand whether PAE fits your goals—and how it compares to other options for your specific case.

Find us at:
9101 N Central Expy, Suite 550,
Dallas, TX 75225
Call (469) 458-9800

Get Expert Care at MTVIR in Dallas

Call today to book your consultation and explore minimally invasive options for lasting relief.