Benign prostatic hyperplasia, also known as an enlarged prostate, is a non-cancerous condition that causes the prostate gland to enlarge. In some cases, it may obstruct the flow of urine through the urethra. BPH can affect men of all ages, however, it usually affects older men.
Some of the most common symptoms of BPH include frequent urination with dribbling, hesitancy, urgency with urination, and possibly a weak stream when urinating.
What Is Rezum Water Vapor Therapy?
Rezum water vapor therapy is an FDA-approved treatment for men diagnosed with BPH and minimally enlarged prostates. Using sterile water vapor, Rezum shrinks the obstructive prostate tissue that is causing bothersome symptoms.
Am I a Candidate for Rezum Therapy?
Men with prostate volumes over 30cm3 and under 80cm3 are considered suitable candidates for the procedure. Rezum may be right for you if:
- You are in relatively good health overall.
- Do not want to undergo more invasive BPH procedures.
- You suffer from other medical conditions that prevent you from going under general anesthesia, or you prefer not to do so.
- You cannot or do not want to take oral BPH medication.
It is equally important to note that not everyone is a candidate for Rezum therapy. Men with an overactive bladder, bladder cancer, and bladder stones usually are suitable candidates for treatment.
How Rezum Water Therapy Is Performed
Before treatment, you will have an in-depth review of your medical history and current symptomatology. Your prostate will be examined and its size measured via digital rectal exam and ultrasound. If found to be a suitable candidate for Rezum therapy, a personalized treatment plan will be created. Depending on the size of your prostate, several sessions may be needed.
At the beginning of the procedure, a small device will be inserted into your urethra under IV sedation or local anesthesia. The Rezum device will then deliver short bursts of steam onto the targeted areas of prostate tissue. As the steam becomes water, it releases thermal energy, which then ablates obstructive prostate tissue.
Post-Procedure and Recovery
You may have residual urinary symptoms following the procedure, however, these should start to subside a few weeks afterward. You should be able to resume normal activities a day or two after Rezum therapy, with a return to full activities over the next several weeks.
It is important to note that you will need to wear a catheter for three to seven days after the Rezum procedure.
Benefits of Rezum Therapy
Rezum Water Vapor Therapy offers a variety of long-term benefits. In addition to being performed as an outpatient procedure, most patients experience long-term relief of their symptoms. The procedure is also minimally invasive, has minimal to no downtime, and preserves sexual function.
If you suffer from BPH, Rezum Water Vapor Therapy may be right for you. At Greater Hartford Urology, we are dedicated to providing personalized care that alleviates your symptoms and provides long-term relief.
Contact us today to learn more about if you’d like to more about Rezum Water Vapor Therapy or schedule a consultation.
