What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?
With age, most men’s prostates grow larger, resulting in irritating problems associated with urination. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition affecting the prostate. It is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that restricts the flow of urine from the bladder.
Millions of men worldwide are affected by BPH, but fewer than five percent are receiving treatment. Fifty percent of men older than 50 and 80 percent of men older than 80 have some symptoms of BPH. This condition is the most common non-cancerous form of cell growth in men.
While there is no definitive cause of BPH, factors that contribute to the condition include aging, hormones and growth factors.
Impact on Quality of Life
Though BPH is not life threatening, it can lead to a reduced quality of life, causing discomfort, inconvenience, sleep disruption and embarrassment. BPH was traditionally treated by methods called Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) or Transurethral Needle Ablation of Prostate (TUNA).
Medication is also available to help treat BPH. Some relax the neck of the bladder aiding men’s bladder control, while others shrink the prostate. These medications are effective, but not as effective as surgery. Within the past decade, a number of minimally invasive techniques have been developed to treat BPH.
Rezūm Water Vapour Therapy for Enlarged Prostate is one such technique that has fewer side effects than other minimally invasive laser or microwave treatments. Compared with older minimally invasive procedures such as TURP and TUNA, Rezūm water vapour therapy offers:
- More predictable and durable results
- Lower risk of sexual side effects
- A shorter recovery period
For these reasons, Rezūm has largely taken over from TUNA in modern urology practice.
Rezūm Water Vapour Therapy for Enlarged Prostate
What Is Rezūm Treatment?
Rezūm water vapour therapy is a minimally invasive treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia. It uses controlled bursts of steam to treat excess prostate tissue that is pressing on the urethra and affecting the flow of urine.
During the Rezūm procedure, water vapour is delivered directly into the enlarged areas of the prostate. As the steam condenses, it releases thermal energy that causes the targeted prostate tissue to break down naturally. Over time, the body absorbs this tissue, reducing obstruction and improving urinary symptoms.
Rezūm steam treatment for BPH addresses the underlying cause of prostatic hyperplasia without surgically removing tissue or implanting permanent devices. Importantly, the risk of sexual side effects, including retrograde ejaculation, is lower than with more invasive surgical treatments.
How the Rezūm Procedure Works
Rezūm Therapy is performed as a day-case procedure by a specialist urologist. It is carried out through the urethra, so no incisions are required.
The procedure typically involves:
- A general anaesthetic
- A slim instrument passed into the urethra
- Brief applications of steam delivered into the prostate tissue from the Rezūm system
The treatment itself is short, and most patients are able to return home the same day. Rezūm works by treating only the tissue causing obstruction, while protecting surrounding structures.
Recovery and What to Expect After Rezūm Therapy
After Rezūm water vapor therapy, it is normal to experience temporary urinary symptoms while the prostate heals. These may include increased urgency, frequent urination, or mild discomfort when passing urine.
Some patients will require a temporary urinary catheter following the procedure to allow the bladder to empty comfortably while swelling settles. This is usually removed after a short period.
Symptom improvement happens gradually. As the treated prostate tissue is absorbed, pressure on the urethra reduces and urinary flow improves. Most men notice steady progress over several weeks, with continued improvement over a few months.
Is Rezūm the Right Treatment for You?
Rezūm treatment may be suitable for patients with bothersome urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate who wish to avoid long-term medication or more invasive surgery.
A full assessment with a urologist is essential. Factors such as prostate anatomy, symptom severity, bladder function, and overall health will help determine whether Rezūm therapy is the most appropriate option for you.
If you are considering treatment or would like to book an appointment to discuss your symptoms, personalised advice will ensure the safest and most effective outcome.
More Information
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