Water vapor therapy (Rezum) for Prostatic Hyperplasia

Water Vapor Therapy (Rezum) for Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

What is Rezum Therapy?

Rezum therapy is a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) that provides long-lasting results. The treatment involves using a special device that delivers water vapor to shrink the enlarged areas of the prostate. The device is inserted through the urethra, so there will be no need for incisions or stitches. Your healthcare provider will numb the area before the procedure to minimize discomfort. Another name for Rezum therapy is water vapor therapy.

What conditions does Rezum therapy treat?

Rezum therapy treats benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a condition that causes the prostate gland (located near the bladder in front of the rectum) to grow, which can block the urethra and cause symptoms that affect your ability to urinate or ejaculate. BPH commonly affects men over 50, but it can also start when you are younger.

Who is not a good candidate for Rezum therapy?

Rezum therapy may not be recommended if you have:

• Kidney function complications.
• An implant in your urethra.
• A very large prostate (over 80 grams).

What happens during Rezum therapy?

Rezum therapy is performed in a doctor’s office. Before the treatment, your healthcare provider will ask you to use the bathroom. They will then use a local anesthetic to numb your urethra and prostate to make you more comfortable during the procedure. Next, a urologist will insert a handheld device with a long, thin tube at the end into your urethra. A small needle extends from the end of the tube and delivers steam into the enlarged areas of the prostate. The steam destroys the prostate cells, causing the enlarged areas to shrink. You will use a urinary catheter for several days until the swelling goes down.

How long does Rezum therapy take?

 Rezum therapy typically takes about 30 minutes. Each treatment session takes about 10 seconds. Up to 15 treatment sessions can be performed in one procedure.

What are the potential benefits of Rezum therapy?

Rezum therapy is a safe and effective treatment for BPH with long-lasting results. Potential benefits of Rezum therapy include:

• No longer needing to take medication for an enlarged prostate.
• Many people see improvement in BPH symptoms within a few weeks.
• Preserves sexual function.
• It is an outpatient procedure (you can go home the same day).
• No need for general anesthesia.
• Quick recovery time.
• The procedure can be repeated if BPH symptoms return.

How successful is Rezum therapy?

Rezum therapy has a good success rate. Studies show that less than 5% of people need additional procedures or surgery within five years of the procedure. About 10% of people need to take prostate medication during those first five years.

How long does Rezum therapy last?

Rezum therapy is a relatively new procedure. The FDA approved Rezum therapy in 2015. Medical studies suggest that Rezum therapy effectively treats BPH symptoms for at least five years.

What are the potential drawbacks of Rezum therapy?

Although Rezum therapy is relatively safe, there are some risks including:

• Pain or discomfort during urination or ejaculation.
• Urinating more often or having a more urgent need to urinate.
• Blood in the urine (hematuria) or semen (hematospermia).
• Urinary tract infection (UTI).
• Inability for semen to exit the penis upon orgasm (dry orgasm).
• Narrowing of the urethra (urethral stricture).
• Bladder stones.

How long will it take for me to improve after Rezum therapy?

Your BPH symptoms may worsen during the first few weeks before improving. Many people notice an improvement in symptoms after several weeks. However, it may take up to three months to notice a difference.

Is there anything I can do to make my recovery from Rezum therapy easier?

The following instructions can help make your recovery from Rezum therapy easier:

• Rest. Your body needs time to heal after Rezum therapy, and rest is essential for your recovery. It is a good idea to spend at least one day at home after the procedure. You may be able to drive yourself home after the procedure and do short walks. However, avoid running, lifting weights, biking, and other strenuous activities for a few weeks.
• Avoid sexual activity. Avoid sexual intercourse and masturbation for a few days to allow the area to heal.
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Drinking plenty of fluids helps flush blood from your urine.
• Avoid fluids that may irritate your bladder. These may include drinks containing caffeine (tea, coffee, energy drinks), carbonated drinks (soda, pop), and citrus juices (orange juice, grapefruit juice).

When should I call my doctor?

Schedule a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider two to three weeks after your Rezum therapy. They will want to see how you are recovering. Call your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms during your recovery:

• Inability to urinate.
• Severe pain.
• Fever.
• Chills.
• Diarrhea.

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