BPH Information: What is Rezum Therapy?

BPH Information: What is Rezum Therapy?

Rezūm is a transurethral RF thermal therapy to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) that can be performed in a clinic or outpatient setting. Using a hand-held device, Rezūm delivers radiofrequency generated thermal therapy, in the form of water vapor, directly to the extra prostate tissue that is causing symptoms. Rezūm received FDA approval in 2015 for the treatment of BPH.

How The Procedure Works

The Rezūm System uses sterile water vapor (steam) to address BPH by delivering targeted, controlled doses of stored thermal energy directly to the region of the prostate gland with the obstructive tissue that causes BPH. Upon contact with the tissue, the vapor condenses into its liquid state, releasing the stored thermal energy contained within the vapor. This thermal energy is then released directly against the walls of the tissue cells within the treatment zone, gently and immediately denaturing the cell membranes, thereby causing almost instantaneous cell death. Over time, the denatured tissue is absorbed by the body’s immune system response, and the reduction in hyperplastic tissue volume reduces the compression of the urethra, enabling improved urine flow.

Benefits Of The Procedure

Rezūm water vapor therapy has been shown to provide patients with significant improvement in BPH symptoms, including frequency, urgency, weak stream, straining to urinate and nocturia (frequent nighttime urination) while preserving erectile function and urinary continence. Other benefits include:

  • The procedure is minimally invasive
  • The procedure takes less than a half hour and can be done awake with local anesthesia or under light sedation
  • The treatment does not require patients to undergo general anesthesia like laser surgery or transurethral resection

Side-effects

As a minimally invasive procedure, Rezūm has demonstrated fewer side effects compared to those typically seen with surgical therapies, but as with any interventional procedure, some of the following side effects may temporarily occur:

  • Painful urination
  • Blood in urine
  • Blood in semen
  • Frequent urination
  • Inability to urinate or completely empty the bladder
  • Need for short-term catheterization

Prognosis

Since use of the procedure is relatively new, there are no long-term studies to show if it will continue to provide effective symptom relief beyond two years. It’s availability is also limited throughout the Unites States as there are only a limited number of physicians trained in this technique.

Dr. David Samadi | Robotic Prostate Surgeon
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ProstateCancer911.com is a resource created by Dr. David Samadi in order to raise awareness and get more men to receive prostate cancer treatment. The information is strictly general and you should always discuss with your doctor issues concerning your health.

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