Rezum Water Vapor Therapy is a modern, minimally invasive treatment used to relieve urinary symptoms caused by Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a common, non-cancerous condition in which the prostate gland enlarges and blocks the normal flow of urine. Rezum therapy uses controlled steam to treat the enlarged prostate tissue safely and effectively.
This blog by Dr. Ankit Kayal, best urologist in Jaipur explains Rezum Water Vapor Therapy in a simple, professional, and informational way, focusing on how the treatment works, the science behind steam therapy, and its role in managing BPH.
Understanding Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
The prostate is a small gland located below the bladder and around the urethra. As men age, the prostate may gradually enlarge due to hormonal changes. When this happens, it can press against the urethra and restrict urine flow.
Common symptoms of BPH include:
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Weak or slow urine stream
- Difficulty starting urination
- Sudden urge to urinate
- Incomplete emptying of the bladder
BPH is not prostate cancer, but if left untreated, it can significantly affect daily comfort and quality of life.
What Is Rezum Water Vapor Therapy?
Rezum Water Vapor Therapy is a minimally invasive prostate treatment designed to reduce excess prostate tissue using water vapor. Instead of surgery or cutting tissue, the treatment delivers small amounts of steam directly into the enlarged areas of the prostate.
This therapy was developed and is clinically supported by Boston Scientific, a global leader in medical technology. Rezum therapy focuses on treating the cause of BPH rather than only managing symptoms.
The Science Behind Steam Treatment
The effectiveness of Rezum therapy is based on a simple scientific principle: thermal energy stored in steam.
Here’s how it works:
- Water is heated to create water vapor
- The vapor is injected into targeted prostate tissue
- As the steam cools and turns back into water, it releases heat
- This heat causes the enlarged prostate cells to break down
The treated cells are then gradually absorbed by the body’s natural healing process. As excess tissue reduces, pressure on the urethra decreases, improving urine flow.
Steam spreads evenly through tissue, allowing precise treatment while minimizing impact on surrounding healthy areas.
How the Rezum Procedure Is Performed
Rezum Water Vapor Therapy is usually performed as an outpatient procedure and does not require general anesthesia.
The procedure typically includes:
- Local anesthesia or light sedation
- Insertion of a thin device through the urethra
- Delivery of controlled steam injections into the prostate
- Completion of the procedure within 10 to 15 minutes
There are no surgical incisions or stitches. Most patients return home the same day.
Recovery and Expected Results
Recovery after Rezum therapy is generally straightforward. Symptom improvement happens gradually as the prostate tissue shrinks over time.
Patients may experience:
- Mild discomfort during urination for a few days
- Temporary increase in urinary frequency or urgency
- Short-term catheter use in some cases
Noticeable improvement usually begins within a few weeks, with maximum results seen within 2 to 3 months.
Benefits of Rezum Water Vapor Therapy
Rezum therapy offers several benefits for men with BPH:
- Minimally invasive treatment
- No surgical cutting or removal of tissue
- Short procedure and recovery time
- Lower risk of long-term complications
- Preserves erectile and ejaculatory function in most patients
- Reduces dependence on long-term medications
These advantages make Rezum therapy a suitable option for men seeking effective symptom relief with minimal disruption to daily life.
Who Can Consider Rezum Therapy?
Rezum Water Vapor Therapy is generally recommended for men with moderate to severe BPH symptoms. It may be suitable for patients who:
- Do not get sufficient relief from medications
- Experience side effects from BPH drugs
- Want to avoid major prostate surgery
- Prefer a minimally invasive treatment option
A urologist will assess prostate size, symptoms, and overall health before recommending the procedure.
Rezum Therapy and Other BPH Treatments
Unlike traditional surgery, Rezum therapy focuses on reducing excess tissue while preserving normal prostate function. It serves as an effective middle option between long-term medication and invasive surgical procedures.
Conclusion
Rezum Water Vapor Therapy is a science-based, minimally invasive treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. By using controlled steam, it treats the root cause of urinary symptoms without major surgery.
For men looking for a safe, effective, and modern solution for BPH, Rezum therapy offers long-term relief while maintaining quality of life.