A fast, safe, non-surgical treatment for benign prostate hyperplasia
Benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) is most common in men over the age of 50, primarily due to changes in testosterone with aging. Benign prostate hyperplasia results in unitary problems such as frequent urination, urinary incontinence, urine stream interruption, and urinary retention. These symptoms have significant effects on the quality of life of patients.
The most common treatments for benign prostate hyperplasia are medications and surgery. However, with current medical advancements, there are more options for patients who do not want to undergo surgery and take medication for fear of side effects.
What is REZUM, water vapor therapy for benign prostate hyperplasia?
REZUM, a new technology that has been proven effective and safe by research studies, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration since 2015 and has been certified by the Thai Food and Drug Administration. REZUME is a simple treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia that uses water vapor and takes only about 10-15 minutes. In this technique, the physician performs cystoscopy through the urethra into the prostate gland. The water vaper at 103°C is then injected into the prostate about 4-6 times depending on the size of the prostate gland, depending on the size of the prostate. Each injection takes only 9 seconds. The water vapor diffuses between the prostate cells resulting in their death (apoptosis). The body will naturally get rid of these dead cells. Eventually, the prostate gland shrinks and the urethra enlarges, enabling normal urination.
Recovery
After treatment, the physician will insert a Foley catheter into the urethra, which will remain in place for 3–5 days to regain urinary function. It also decreases the swelling and speeds up recovery. Once the Foley catheter is removed, there may be a burning sensation during urination as well as some blood in the urine for about 4-6 weeks. Some blood may be found in the semen. Symptoms generally improve within 2 weeks and most symptoms turn to normal within 6 weeks.
Advantages of REZUM water vapor therapy
- It is a non-surgical treatment using cystoscopy.
- No general anesthesia is required, only painkillers or local anesthesia are used.
- Take less time during the procedure.
- No hospital stay required.
- Reduce the risk of erectile dysfunction.
- No repeat treatment required within 5 years.
Who should receive REZUM water vapor therapy?
- Age 50 years and over
- The prostate gland is between 30 – 80 g
- Does not respond to medication or has side effects from medication
- Health conditions that are not suitable for prolonged anesthesia
- No bladder infection problem.
- No penile prosthesis.
Potential risks
REZUM water vapor therapy may have some mild, short-term risks, such as:
- Dysuria
- Bloody urine or semen
- Frequent urination
- Urinary retention
- Decreased amount of semen
- Urinary tract infections
Urology Center, Bangkok Hospital Phuket has introduced the REZUM water vapor therapy performed by a team of specialists in urology who have experience in treating benign prostate hyperplasia. We also have a knowledgeable and skilled multidisciplinary team available to take care of patients throughout the treatment period, including follow-up care to ensure the best treatment outcomes for patients.
