Efficacy of High-Dose Dexamethasone in Reducing the Symptoms of Postembolization Syndrome Following Prostatic Artery Embolization: Results of a Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the efficacy of a single perioperative dose of dexamethasone in reducing postembolization syndrome following prostatic artery embolization. Materials and Methods We conducted a single-center double-blind randomized controlled trial from March 2021 to May 2022 (NCT04588857). Participants were randomized to receive either i.v. 24 mg dexamethasone or saline. The primary outcome measures were temperature, pain, and quality of life in the first 5 days following prostatic artery embolization. Sample size of 60 patients was needed for the assessment of primary outcomes. Participants were followed for 6 months and assessed for a variety of secondary outcome measures including inflammatory markers and lower urinary tract symptoms severity. Results Due to lack of clinical effect and mild symptoms in the control group, the trial was terminated early. 31 participants (16 dexamethasone vs. 15 control) were enrolled and analyzed. A difference in mean temperature was observed on day 1 (37.23 ± 0.64 °C control vs 36.74 ± 0.41 °C dexamethasone, p = 0.02, 95% CI 0.09–0.89). Difference in pain (score out of 10) was seen only on day 5 (1.48 ± 1.2 control vs. 2.9 ± 2.24 dexamethasone, p = 0.04, 95% CI − 2.78–− 0.04). A difference in C-reactive protein values was observed on day 2 (108 [54–161] mg/l control vs 10 [5–33] mg/l dexamethasone, p < 0.01). No significant differences in other outcomes were observed. No side effects were recorded. Conclusions Twenty-four milligrams of dexamethasone bolus is safe but does not reduce postembolization syndrome following prostatic artery embolization. Graphical Abstract