Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate that commonly affects older people. An enlarged prostate can obstruct the flow of urine, which may cause a frequent and urgent need to pee, an inability to empty the bladder, and a loss of bladder control. Symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia may initially be mild, but they tend to worsen over time.
Mild to moderate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia are often managed through lifestyle changes and with medication. People with moderate to severe symptoms may require minimally invasive or surgical treatment to remove the excess prostate tissue. Prostatic artery embolization is an endovascular procedure to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia in which a specialist doctor uses a catheter (a thin tube) to insert tiny particles into the bloodstream. These particles block the flow of blood to the enlarged prostate, which results in the prostate shrinking and in relief of symptoms.
This health technology assessment looked at how safe, effective, and cost-effective prostatic artery embolization is compared with other treatment options for people with benign prostatic hyperplasia. It also looked at the budget impact of publicly funding prostatic artery embolization, and it looked at the experiences, preferences, and values of people with benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Read the full health technology assessment report for more information.
The Ministry of Health is currently reviewing this recommendation.
The Ministry of Health has provided the following response: The Ministry has a standardized process in place to review health technology assessments and funding recommendations. This takes into consideration Ministry priorities, implementation options, the need for consultation with impacted stakeholders, and funding considerations.