Beacon specialists restore patient’s quality of life with minimally-invasive prostate treatment

Bryan McKeon

“I guess as you get older, things start breaking down,” shares Bryan McKeon, an energetic retiree. Like many men his age, Bryan found himself wrestling with an enlarged prostate that had begun affecting his quality of life.

Last autumn, Bryan reached his tipping point.

“This is becoming a nuisance,” he thought, after enduring the symptoms of an enlarged prostate for some time. He was ready for relief, where he wouldn’t have to get up multiple times a night. Socializing and travel had become more difficult, with every outing requiring strategic planning around restroom availability.

Bryan researched the most common type of prostate surgery — TURP surgery — that involves a four to six week recovery period. His physician suggested he consult with a specialist about less invasive options.

His consultation with Dr. Michael Ginsburg, interventional radiologist at Beacon Medical Group Interventional Radiology and Vascular Specialists, introduced the solution he was hoping for: prostate arterial embolization (PAE).

“Other options like UroLife or Rezum seem less intense than TURP, but they still involve tinkering inside the prostate, with some downtime and possible irritation,” Dr. Ginsburg says.

PAE works by threading a tiny tube through the groin to block blood flow to the prostate, making it shrink naturally. There is no cutting, no general anesthesia and no long recovery. In addition, the risk of side effects is lower compared to other prostate treatment procedures.

Dr. Michael Ginsburg

“Dr. Ginsburg explained everything in depth, with pictures,” Bryan says. He was reassured by the amount of time Dr. Ginsburg spent talking with him and answering his questions. It created a foundation of trust.

Once confirmed as an good candidate for PAE, Bryan’s decision was immediate: “Let’s do it!”

“When I meet someone like Bryan, I want them to feel at ease,” Dr. Ginsburg says. “That means explaining everything — your condition, your options, what’s next — in a way that clicks. When you get it, the worry fades, and we can team up to get you back to your best.”

The procedure took place at Memorial Hospital of South Bend last fall. “I was sleeping, I woke up, and we were done,” Bryan recalls. “Everybody — the doctor, the physician assistants, the nurses – were so nice. They were very attentive. It was a great experience.”

Just two weeks later, Bryan noticed his urinary urgency and frequency had decreased. By his eight-week follow-up visit, his quality of life had rebounded.

Dr. Ginsburg explains that 80% of patients quickly see big improvements from PAE, including better urinary flow and fewer nighttime bathroom visits. “Since there’s no surgery, you’re home the same day, and back to normal in days,” he says. “Some feel mild cramping or burning for a bit, but it’s short-lived, and we’ve got meds to help.”

PAE isn’t appropriate for all men; those men with very large prostates or bladder issues might need another approach. But for Bryan, it proved the perfect solution.

Reflecting on his experience, Bryan observes that people sometimes learn to accept things when they don’t have to. He now encourages other men dealing with prostate issues not to accept the symptoms, but to discuss PAE with their doctor.

“I don’t have to search for the bathroom the moment I get out of the car. Marital relations are much better. This turned into just a bump in the road,” he shares with renewed confidence. “I should have done it sooner. I feel like I’m in my 30s again!”

Learn more

Vascular interventional radiology is a specialized area that uses minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat diseases and conditions. Beacon’s Vascular Interventional Radiology program offers streamlined access to innovative care personalized to patient’s needs.

We deliver safe, effective and compassionate care through minimally invasive, targeted treatments using the latest imaging technology. Beacon providers are board certified, and fellowship trained, meaning you don’t have to leave town for excellent care.