Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate, is a common condition affecting millions of men, especially as they age. BPH can cause frustrating urinary symptoms like frequent urination, weak flow, and incomplete bladder emptying.
Fortunately, modern treatment options like Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy can provide effective relief without surgery. This minimally invasive procedure uses the power of steam to shrink the prostate and restore normal urinary function. Below, we explore how Rezūm works, its benefits and risks, and how it compares to other BPH treatments.
What is Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy?
Rezūm is a minimally invasive treatment designed to relieve urinary symptoms caused by BPH. It uses thermal energy from water vapor to reduce the size of the prostate, improving urine flow without the need for major surgery or long-term medication. The procedure is performed in a doctor’s office or outpatient setting, making it a convenient alternative to traditional surgery which is performed in a hospital under general anesthesia.
How Does Rezūm Work?
The science behind Rezūm is simple but powerful. The system delivers small amounts of steam directly into the overgrown prostate tissue. As the steam cools, it releases heat, which causes the targeted prostate cells to die. Over the next few weeks, the body re-absorbs the dead tissue, and the prostate shrinks—relieving pressure on the urethra and restoring normal urinary function.
Rezūm Procedure Overview
The Rezūm procedure is quick and typically only takes less than 5 minutes! Here’s what you can expect:
1. Preparation
The procedure is often performed under local anesthesia to keep you comfortable, with minimal sedation if needed. No general anesthesia is required.
2. Delivery of Steam
A small device is inserted through the urethra to deliver controlled bursts of steam into the prostate tissue. Each burst lasts 9 seconds, and several injections may be needed, depending on the size and shape of the prostate.
3. Completion and Discharge
Since there is no cutting or removal of tissue, most patients go home shortly after the procedure. A temporary catheter is placed to help with urination during the initial recovery phase.
What Are the Benefits of Rezūm Therapy?
- Minimally invasive: No surgery, no incisions, and no need for general anesthesia
- Quick procedure: Takes only 2 to 5 minutes
- Preserves sexual function: Low risk of erectile dysfunction or retrograde ejaculation
- Fast recovery: Most patients return to regular activities within a few days
- Long-lasting relief: Clinical studies show symptom improvement for up to 5 years or more (similar to surgical procedures).
- Avoids daily medication: Eliminates the need for long-term drug therapy and its associated side effects
Possible Side Effects and Risks
While Rezūm is generally safe, there are some potential side effects, most of which are temporary. These include:
- Urinary discomfort or burning during urination
- Frequent urination or urgency for several weeks post-procedure
- Blood in urine (hematuria) or semen, although this is temporary.
- Mild swelling or irritation of the prostate, which will require the use of a temporary catheter
In rare cases, more serious complications such as infection or difficulty urinating can occur. However, most side effects resolve on their own within a few days to weeks.
Pre- and Post-Procedure Care
Pre-Procedure Care
- Your doctor may recommend avoiding certain medications (like blood thinners) in the days leading up to the procedure.
- Be sure to arrange for transportation home after the procedure, as you may feel drowsy if light sedation is used. Dr. Jonathan Clavell provides the procedure in a way that most patients will be able to drive themselves home.
Post-Procedure Care
- Hydrate well: Drinking plenty of water helps flush the urinary system.
- Temporary catheter: Patients will need a catheter for a few days to assist with urination while the prostate heals. This is nothing to fear as the catheter will allow you to rest and recover with minimal discomfort or irritation.
- Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with mild discomfort. Dr. Clavell will provide you with medications that will help with irritation and urinary urgency.
- Follow-up appointments: Most men follow-up several days after the procedure for catheter removal and then 3 months after the procedure for an evaluation with the doctor.
Recovery Timeline for Rezūm Therapy
Many patients experience improvement within 2-4 weeks, though full benefits may take up to 3 months as the body absorbs the treated tissue. Symptoms generally continue to improve for up to 1 year. Most men return to normal activities within a few days, but it’s recommended to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for the first week. Sexual activity can be resumed after the catheter is removed. Temporary urinary symptoms like urgency or frequency are normal but will gradually improve as healing progresses.
Clinical Evidence Supporting Rezūm
Rezūm has been evaluated in several clinical trials, where it has demonstrated both safety and effectiveness. Studies show significant improvement in urinary symptoms, quality of life, and flow rates.
Research also highlights that Rezūm has a low risk of sexual side effects, with most men reporting preservation of erectile and ejaculatory function. Long-term data supports symptom relief lasting up to 5 years or more, making it a reliable option for BPH management.
Comparing Rezūm to Other BPH Treatments
When considering Rezūm, it’s helpful to compare it to other treatments:
- Medications (Alpha-blockers or 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors)
- Relieve symptoms but may cause side effects like dizziness or sexual dysfunction
- Require lifelong use, which can be costly and inconvenient
- TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate)
- Surgical option that removes part of the prostate tissue
- More invasive, with a higher risk of complications
- UroLift
- Uses small implants to lift the prostate tissue and relieve obstruction
- Faster recovery but not suitable for very large prostates or median lobes.
- Does not treat the problem and has a higher long-term failure rate.
- Laser Therapy
- Uses heat to remove prostate tissue
- Effective but carries a risk of sexual side effects
Rezūm offers a middle ground—it is more effective than medications and is less invasive than surgery.
Common Questions about Rezūm
How long does the Rezūm procedure take?
The procedure typically takes 2-5 minutes, and patients can go home the same day.
Is the Rezūm procedure painful?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort during the procedure, which is managed with local anesthesia or light sedation.
How soon will I notice results?
Many men see improvement within 2-4 weeks, though full benefits can take up to 3 months.
Will I need to take medications after the procedure?
Many patients continue to take their prostate medications to help them urinate while they wait for the swelling and discomfort to subside, but long-term medication is not usually required.
Does Rezūm affect sexual function?
One of the key benefits of Rezūm is that it has a low risk of sexual side effects like retrograde ejaculation which is common after other surgical procedures.
Final Thoughts: Is Rezūm Right for You?
Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy offers an effective, minimally invasive solution for men seeking relief from BPH symptoms without the risks of surgery or long-term medication. With very low down-time, lasting results, and minimal impact on sexual function, it’s an excellent option for many patients.
If you’re experiencing BPH symptoms, consult with a urologist like Dr. Jonathan Clavell to see if Rezūm is the right treatment for you. Dr Jonathan Clavell is a leading expert and Houston’s first Center of Excellence in Rezum Water Vapor Therapy. He has performed over hundreds of procedures with excellent results. Managing an enlarged prostate doesn’t have to mean invasive procedures or lifelong medication—modern solutions like Rezūm can help you get back to living comfortably and enjoying your active lifestyle.
Schedule a Rezūm Consultation in Houston, TX
Contact board-certified urologist Dr. Jonathan Clavell at (713) 424-4030 to schedule a consultation in Houston, TX to find out if Rezūm is the right choice for your BPH management.
Sources:
What is Rezūm
What is Rezūm FAQ
Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy