Water vapor therapy (rezum) is an innovative and minimally invasive method used in urology to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH ). This treatment involves injecting sterile water vapor into the prostate gland to shrink enlarged tissues. The steam targets prostate cells, causing controlled tissue destruction; The body naturally removes this dead tissue over time.
It is usually performed under local anesthesia without the need for hospitalization and can be returned to daily life in a short time. Water vapor therapy not only reduces urination problems but also stands out with its ability to preserve sexual functions more compared to open surgeries.
It is an effective, safe and comfortable option for patients whose prostate volume is within certain limits and who do not respond to drug treatment.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia, medically known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), is a condition that is common in men with age and occurs when the prostate gland enlarges over time. The prostate is located just below the bladder and surrounds the urinary tract (urethra). The enlargement of this gland puts pressure on the urinary canal, causing various urination problems.
Symptoms
- Frequent urination (especially at night)
- Difficulty or delay in urinating
- Weak or interrupted urine flow
- Feeling of incomplete emptying
- Urgent urge to urinate
BPH is not cancer, but it can significantly affect quality of life. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the disease can be controlled and complications can be prevented.
What is water vapor (Rezum) treatment?
Rezum is a minimally invasive, non-surgical method used medically to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH ). This form of treatment provides controlled destruction of enlarged prostate cells by administering sterile water vapor (thermal energy) to the prostate tissue.
Highlights
- It can be applied as an outpatient treatment with local anesthesia.
- The catheter duration is usually 3–5 days.
- The risk of bleeding and infection is low.
- Sexual functions (especially erection) are usually preserved.
- Patients can return to daily life within a few days.
Rezum water vapor therapy offers a natural, safe and effective solution to urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate. It is an ideal alternative especially for young patients who want to protect their sexual health.
How is water vapor treatment applied?
Rezūm water vapor therapy is a minimally invasive treatment method developed for men who have difficulty urinating due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and is completed in a short time.
Preparation:
The patient receives local anesthesia or light sedation before the procedure. The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis.
Placement of the Device:
A special Rezūm device is used to enter the prostate area through the urethra (urinary tract).
Water Vapor Application:
Sterile water vapor is injected into the prostate tissue for a few seconds. Steam breaks down cell membranes, causing the enlarged tissue to shrink over time.
Catheter Application:
A temporary urinary catheter is inserted for 3-5 days after the procedure. This allows urine to come out easily.
Recovery Process:
- The procedure takes about 10–15 minutes .
- Patients can be discharged on the same day.
- The full effect usually occurs within a few weeks to a few months.
- Sexual functions are usually preserved; Temporary side effects are rare and mild.
Water vapor therapy shrinks excess tissue in the prostate gland with steam without the need for surgical incisions. Being comfortable, fast and effective, it is an ideal solution for patients looking for an alternative to surgery.
For whom is water vapor treatment applied?
Rezum water vapor therapy is a suitable treatment option for men who have problems urinating due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It provides effective results, especially in individuals who are looking for an alternative to surgery or who do not benefit sufficiently from medication.
Appropriate Patient Profile
Those with a prostate size between 30-80 ml
It may not be suitable for very large prostates, but it is ideal for medium-sized prostates.
Those who have problems urinating
Those with symptoms such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, waking up at night to urinate.
Patients who are unable to use medication or who do not respond to drug therapy
It is a good alternative for those who stop taking medication due to side effects.
Patients who do not want surgery or who are at high risk of surgery
It is suitable for those who are older or whose general health condition is not suitable for surgery.
Ineligible Situations
- Those with prostate cancer
- Those with a very large prostate volume (over 80 ml, there may be exceptions in some cases)
- When the urinary infection is active
- Neurogenic bladder or complex urological conditions
Water vapor therapy is an ideal option, especially for young, active men who want to avoid surgery, with its fast recovery time and sexual function-preserving effect without the need for surgery. Suitability must be evaluated by a urologist.
What are the advantages of the water vapor treatment method?
Rezum water vapor therapy is an innovative and comfortable method used in urinary problems caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This treatment, which is less invasive than surgery, provides advantages in many ways.
- No surgical incision is made; It is applied by entering through the urethra.
- General anesthesia is not required, it can be applied as an outpatient treatment.
- The procedure takes an average of 10-15 minutes, you can be discharged on the same day.
- It is usually removed within 3–5 days.
- Patients can return to their daily lives within a few days.
- Erectile function is mostly not affected, semen may escape back in some patients (retrograde ejaculation).
- After the application, a significant reduction in prostate volume is achieved, and the effect can last for years.
- It is suitable for patients who want to avoid medication side effects or are unable to take medication.
- Treatment is carried out using only water vapor (sterile water), no drugs or foreign substances are given to the body.
Water vapor therapy is a treatment method that is both effective and prioritizes patient comfort. It is an ideal option, especially for patients who do not want surgery, want to recover quickly or want to preserve their sexual health.
Are there any disadvantages of water vapor therapy?
Yes, like any medical procedure, rezum water vapor treatment has some drawbacks and limitations. These disadvantages are usually temporary and do not pose a serious problem for most patients; However, it is important to know before deciding on treatment.
- Complaints such as burning during urination, frequent urination, and weakening of urine flow can be seen in the first few weeks.
- Full benefit usually occurs within a few weeks to a few months; It requires patience for patients expecting quick effects.
- A urinary catheter may need to be inserted for 3-5 days after the procedure, which can be uncomfortable for some patients.
- It may be insufficient in patients with a very large prostate volume (usually >80 ml).
- It is a rare condition; Semen escapes into the bladder during orgasm, not out. It is harmless but can be important for fertility.
- Although it provides a long-lasting effect, some patients may require re-procedure after years.
Who Should Be Careful?
- Those with suspected prostate cancer
- Those with severe urinary tract infections
- Those with complex urinary tract anomalies
Rezum water vapor treatment is a safe and effective method; However, there may be some inconvenience and limitations in the short term. These disadvantages can be minimized with appropriate patient selection and expert control.
Frequently asked questions about water vapor therapy
How long does the procedure take?
The treatment takes about 10-15 minutes and is mostly applied as an outpatient treatment.
Is it a painful procedure?
It is usually performed with local anesthesia or light sedation. There may be mild burning or discomfort after the procedure, but these are temporary.
How many days do I need to stay in the hospital?
Generally, patients can return home on the same day. No hospitalization is required.
Is a urinary catheter inserted after the procedure?
Yes, most patients use a urinary catheter for 3-5 days.
When does it take effect?
Improvement in symptoms usually begins within 2-6 weeks, with full effect taking several months.
Are sexual functions affected?
Erection is usually maintained. Retrograde ejaculation (semen escapes into the bladder) may occur in some patients but is harmless.
Is this treatment permanent?
It lasts for many years in most patients. However, although rare, some patients may require a second intervention in the following years.
Is it suitable for every patient?
No. It may not be suitable for patients with a very large prostate, active infection or suspected prostate cancer.
When can I return to my normal life?
Patients can usually return to work and daily life within a few days.