Median lobe of the prostate explained

Median lobe of the prostate

A median lobe, also called a middle lobe, is part of the prostate that grows upward into the bladder opening. How far it pushes into the bladder is called intravesical prostatic protrusion. In a study of 54 men, early results after prostate artery embolization (PAE) were similar with or without a large protrusion¹.

A plain-language definition from the ProcedurePath glossary.

Written and reviewed by Varun Danda, MD, interventional radiology resident physician · Last reviewed October 25, 2026

How it is found

Ultrasound, MRI or a camera look into the bladder (cystoscopy) can show a median lobe. Reports may give the protrusion in millimeters. In the study above, 10 mm or more counted as severe¹.

Why it matters for treatment

In that study, symptom scores improved after PAE in men with and without a severe protrusion, and the size of the protrusion did not predict the results. Follow-up was short, a median of 38 days¹. Size and shape can change which treatments fit, so ask how your median lobe affects your options.

Read more: Prostate size and anatomy terms

Common question

Can PAE treat a median lobe?

In one study of 54 men, early results after PAE were similar with or without a large median lobe protrusion¹. Ask your doctor whether PAE fits your anatomy.

Talk with your doctor before you decide. This information does not replace personal medical advice. Read the medical disclaimer.

Sources

Effect of median lobe enlargement on early prostatic artery embolization outcomes, Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology 2020 (PMID 31956004) ↩︎