Rezum is a minimally invasive technique for treating prostate adenoma (benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH). Rather than resecting or enucleating large portions of the prostate, this method uses steam to soften and reduce the prostate volume, thereby relieving urinary symptoms related to obstruction.
Understanding prostate adenoma
With age, the prostate gland can enlarge and compress the urethra, leading to urinary flow problems, frequent urges, nighttime awakenings, and a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. Treatment typically begins with medication. When medication becomes insufficient or poorly tolerated, surgical or minimally invasive options are considered.
Rezum Principle
The technique involves injecting steam directly into the enlarged prostate tissue. The heat causes controlled necrosis of the targeted cells, which are then gradually reabsorbed. The result is a reduction in prostate volume and decreased compression of the urethra.
Procedure of the intervention
- Duration: approximately 15 minutes.
- Anesthesia: short, general or local depending on the case.
- Mode: outpatient procedure — arrival in the morning, discharge in the evening.
- After the procedure: insertion of a bladder catheter for a few days; this is painless and easy to manage, and can be removed at home by a nurse.
Expected effects and recovery schedule
Urinary symptoms gradually improve. It takes about a month to see the full effect of prostate reduction. Most patients can permanently stop their prostate medications after using Rezum.
Duration of effectiveness and reintervention
Efficacy is estimated to last between 5 and 10 years according to published studies. Less than 5% of patients require reintervention within five years of the procedure.
Main advantages
- Minimally invasive : less trauma compared to traditional interventions.
- A short procedure (15 minutes) and possible under local anesthesia.
- Preservation of erection : the procedure does not affect erectile function.
- Very low risk of retrograde ejaculation : less than 5%.
- Discontinuation of drug treatments for the majority of patients.
Possible disadvantages and side effects
- Wearing a urinary catheter for a few days.
- Possibility of hematuria (blood in the urine) or hemospermia (blood in the semen).
- Risk of urinary tract infection.
- Moderate perineal pain in some patients.
Who is Rezum aimed at?
Rezum is intended for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) for whom medical treatment is no longer satisfactory or causes side effects. The indication depends on the size and anatomy of the prostate, as well as the patient’s medical history. A urological consultation is required to confirm eligibility.
Practical points and advice after the procedure
- Expect a short recovery period and the presence of a urinary catheter for a few days.
- Medical follow-up for probe removal by a nurse and symptom monitoring.
- Report any fever, severe pain, or heavy bleeding to your doctor.
- Wait approximately one month to assess the maximum improvement in symptoms.
Final word
Rezum offers an attractive alternative between medical treatment and more invasive surgery. It’s an option to consider when seeking a treatment that preserves sexual function while providing lasting improvement to urinary symptoms. A complete urological evaluation is essential to determine if this solution is right for you.
