Rezūm Procedure

Overview 

Rezūm™ therapy, also known as water vapor therapy, is a minimally invasive, nonsurgical treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) that offers good long-term outcomes. The procedure uses a special instrument to deliver water vapor (steam) through the urethra, targeting and shrinking the enlarged areas of the prostate without the need for incisions or stitches. A healthcare provider numbs the area beforehand to minimize discomfort, making it a simple and effective treatment option for BPH.

The benefits of Rezūm therapy for BPH treatment include:  

• Elimination of the need for ongoing BPH medications.  
• Noticeable improvement in symptoms for many patients within weeks.  
• Preservation of sexual function.  
• Outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home on the same day.  
• No requirement for general anesthesia.  
• Quick recovery time.  

Reasons for undergoing the procedure  

The Rezūm procedure is a treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition where the prostate gland enlarges, potentially obstructing the urethra. This can lead to symptoms such as difficulty urinating or ejaculating. BPH is most common in individuals over 50, but it can develop at a younger age as well. 

However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for Rezūm. Healthcare providers may advise against the procedure if the patient has complications with kidney function, a urethral implant, or if the prostate is significantly enlarged, typically over 80 grams. 

Risks 

Despite the relative safety of the Rezūm treatment, there are a few hazards to be aware of:  

• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI).  
• Stones in the bladder  
• Pain or discomfort during ejaculation or urination.  
• Urging to urinate more frequently than usual or more urgently.  
• Hematuria (blood in urine) or hematospermia (blood in semen).  
• When you achieve sexual climax, your penis does not release semen (dry ejaculation).  
• Your urethra narrowing (urethral strictures).  

Procedure 

Rezūm therapy is conducted in a doctor’s office for your convenience. Before the procedure, you’ll be asked to empty your bladder. A local anesthetic is then applied to numb your urethra and prostate, ensuring your comfort throughout the process.  

During the procedure, a urologist will insert a handheld device containing a long, thin tube into your urethra. At the end of the tube, a small needle releases steam into the enlarged areas of the prostate. This steam effectively targets and destroys excess prostate cells, leading to a reduction in size of the enlarged areas. 

After the treatment, you will need to use a urinary catheter for a few days to manage any swelling. The entire Rezūm therapy session usually lasts about 30 minutes, with each individual steam treatment taking around 10 seconds. A maximum of 15 treatments may be administered in a single session. 

Outcome 

In the initial weeks after Rezūm therapy, your BPH symptoms may temporarily worsen before they start to improve. Many patients notice an improvement within a few weeks, although it can take up to three months to see significant changes.  

To facilitate your recovery after Rezūm therapy, consider the following tips:  

• Rest: Allow your body time to heal. It’s recommended to take at least one day off to rest after the procedure. While you can drive home and walk short distances, avoid strenuous activities such as running, heavy lifting, and biking for a few weeks.  
• Avoid sexual activity: Refrain from sexual intercourse and masturbation for a few days to support proper healing.  
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to help flush out blood from your urine.  
• Avoid bladder irritants: Stay away from beverages that can irritate your bladder, including caffeinated drinks (like tea, coffee, and energy drinks), carbonated beverages (such as seltzer and soda), and citrus juices (like orange and grapefruit). 

The success rate of the Rezūm technique is quite high. Research shows that fewer than 5% of patients require follow-up surgeries within five years of the initial procedure. Additionally, around 10% of individuals continue to use prostate medication during this period.