What is Rezūm therapy?
Rezūm™ therapy (pronounced "ruh-ZOOM") is a minimally invasive non-surgical treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) that has good long-term results. Rezūm therapy is a relatively new procedure. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Rezūm therapy in 2015. Medical outcome studies have shown that Rezūm therapy effectively treats symptoms of BPH for at least five years.
Includes a special tool that uses water vapor to shrink the enlarged areas of your prostate. The tool passes through your urethra so you won't have incisions or need stitches. The specialist will numb the area with a local anaesthetic before the procedure to reduce discomfort. Another name for Rezūm is water vapor therapy.
What conditions are treated with the Rezūm procedure?
The Rezūm procedure treats BPH. BPH is a condition that causes a growth in the prostate (the gland near the bladder, in front of the rectum) that can block the urethra and cause symptoms that affect your ability to urinate or ejaculate. BPH usually affects people over the age of 50. But it can also start when you are younger.
Who is not a good candidate for Rezūm?
The specialist may not recommend Rezūm if you have:
- Complications of kidney function.
- Urethral implant.
- Very large prostate (over 80 grams).
How long does Rezūm therapy take?
Rezūm therapy usually takes about 30 minutes. Each individual treatment takes about 10 seconds. Up to 15 treatments can be done during one treatment.
What are the potential benefits of Rezūm therapy?
Rezūm therapy is a safe and effective treatment for BPH with good long-term results. Many people see improvement in their BPH symptoms within a few weeks.
- Preserves sexual function.
- This is an outpatient procedure (you can go home the same day as the procedure).
- You do not need general anesthesia.
- Fast recovery period.
You can repeat the procedure if symptoms of BPH return.
How successful is the Rezūm procedure?
The success rate of the Rezūm procedure is good. Studies have shown that fewer than 5% of people need additional procedures or surgeries within five years of the procedure. About 10% of people need to take prostate medication in the first five years.
How long will it take to feel better after Rezūm therapy?
During the first few weeks, symptoms of BPH may worsen before improving. Many people notice an improvement in their symptoms after a few weeks. However, it can take up to three months to see a difference.
Is there anything I can do to make recovery easier after the procedure Resume?
- Rest. Your body needs time to heal after Rezūm therapy, and rest is essential for your recovery. It's a good idea to spend at least one day at home resting after your Rezūm treatment. It is a good idea to go home after the treatment and walk short distances. But avoid running, weight lifting, cycling, and other strenuous activities for a few weeks.
- Avoid sexual activity. Avoid 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 out of the urine.
- Avoid liquids that can irritate your bladder. These can include drinks that contain caffeine (tea, coffee, energy drinks), fizzy drinks and citrus juices.
