Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate, is a common condition that affects millions of men, especially as they age. While BPH is not life-threatening, its symptoms—frequent urination, weak urine flow, and difficulty emptying the bladder—can significantly impact the quality of life. Among the advanced treatments available, Rezum Water Vapor Therapy stands out as a minimally invasive, effective option for men looking to avoid medication or surgery.
In this blog, we’ll explore Rezum Therapy, how it works, and its benefits for treating BPH.
What is Rezum Therapy?
Rezum Therapy is an FDA-approved, minimally invasive procedure that uses the natural power of water vapor (steam) to treat the symptoms of an enlarged prostate. The therapy targets and reduces excess prostate tissue that blocks the urethra, improving urine flow and alleviating BPH symptoms.
This procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting, making it a convenient option for many patients.
How Does Rezum Therapy Work?
- Preparation: The procedure begins with a local anesthetic to ensure comfort.
- Application: Using a specialized device, a small amount of water vapor is injected into the enlarged prostate tissue.
- Action: The steam condenses into water, releasing energy that destroys the excess prostate cells. Over time, the body absorbs the treated tissue, reducing the size of the prostate.
- Improvement: As the prostate tissue shrinks, the pressure on the urethra is relieved, allowing for improved urine flow.
The entire procedure takes only about 10-15 minutes, and patients can usually return home the same day.
Who is a Candidate for Rezum Therapy?
Rezum is suitable for men with mild to moderate BPH symptoms. It is particularly beneficial for:
- Men seeking an alternative to long-term medications.
- Those who prefer a less invasive option compared to surgery.
- Patients experiencing side effects from medications like dizziness or sexual dysfunction.
- Men with prostates of a size appropriate for Rezum treatment (usually between 30 and 80 grams).
Your urologist will evaluate your symptoms, prostate size, and overall health to determine if Rezum is the right choice for you.
Benefits of Rezum Therapy
- Minimally Invasive: No incisions are required, reducing the risk of complications.
- Quick Recovery: Most patients resume normal activities within a few days.
- Effective Symptom Relief: Many men notice significant improvement in urinary symptoms within a few weeks.
- Preserves Sexual Function: Unlike some surgical treatments, Rezum minimizes the risk of erectile dysfunction or retrograde ejaculation.
- Long-Lasting Results: Studies show that the benefits of Rezum can last for several years.
- No General Anesthesia: The procedure uses local anesthesia, making it safer for older patients or those with other health conditions.
What to Expect After the Procedure
- Post-Procedure Discomfort: Some men may experience mild discomfort, burning during urination, or an increased urge to urinate. These symptoms typically resolve within a few days to weeks.
- Catheter Use: A temporary urinary catheter may be required for a few days after the procedure to assist with urination.
- Gradual Improvement: While some relief may be immediate, full results usually take about 2-3 months as the body absorbs the treated tissue.
Potential Side Effects
Like any medical procedure, Rezum carries some risks, including:
- Temporary urinary retention
- Blood in urine or semen
- Urinary urgency or frequency
These side effects are usually mild and resolve over time.
Why Choose Rezum Therapy?
For men seeking a balance between effectiveness and convenience, /”>Rezum is an excellent option. It offers significant symptom relief without the need for lifelong medication or invasive surgery. By choosing Rezum, patients can enjoy improved urinary function and a better quality of life with minimal downtime.