Rezum: Overview, Preparation, Procedure, Recovery, Risks, and Aftercare
Overview of Rezum
Rezum is a minimally invasive treatment option for men suffering from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also known as prostate enlargement. Symptoms of BPH include frequent urination, urgency, weak urine flow, and incomplete bladder emptying. BPH is common among older men. Using water vapor therapy, Rezum shrinks enlarged prostate tissue and alleviates urinary symptoms without requiring surgery or medication.
Preparation
Rezum therapy is typically initiated after a thorough evaluation by a urologist to confirm the diagnosis of BPH and assess the suitability of the patient for it. Medical history, physical examination, urine flow studies, ultrasounds, and cystoscopies may all be part of this evaluation. A patient may be advised to discontinue certain medications that can increase bleeding risk, and they will receive instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, including fasting requirements and any necessary preoperative medications.
Procedure
A small, flexible device called a delivery catheter is inserted into the urethra during the Rezum procedure and positioned within the prostate tissue under cystoscopic guidance as an outpatient procedure. Injection of sterile water vapor into prostate tissue using radiofrequency energy causes the targeted prostate cells to shrink and eventually be absorbed by the body after being placed in place. Patients can return home the same day after the procedure, which usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Recovery
Patients may experience temporary side effects after undergoing Rezum therapy, including urination frequency, urgency, and discomfort. As the prostate tissue shrinks and the urinary symptoms gradually disappear, these symptoms usually subside within a few days to weeks. A few days after the procedure, patients are usually advised to refrain from strenuous activity and heavy lifting, and may be prescribed pain medications or alpha-blockers to help manage discomfort or urinary symptoms.
Risks
There are some potential risks and complications associated with Rezum therapy, but it is considered to be a safe and effective procedure for most patients. Symptoms include urinary tract infection, urinary retention, hematuria (blood in the urine), discomfort or pain during urination, and temporary difficulty ejaculating. Although rare, serious complications like urinary incontinence or erectile dysfunction can occur. Before undergoing Rezum therapy, patients should discuss the potential risks and benefits with their urologist.
Aftercare
As a result of Rezum therapy, patients will typically schedule follow-up appointments with their urologist to assess their progress. For optimal urinary function, patients may be advised to continue taking medications to manage urinary symptoms as needed. Additional Rezum treatments may be necessary in some cases to achieve the desired results. In addition to maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, patients should also be encouraged to adopt healthy lifestyle habits.
Conclusion
Men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) seeking relief from bothersome urinary symptoms can find relief with Rezum, a minimally invasive treatment option. Patients can take proactive steps to improve their urinary health and quality of life by understanding the overview, preparation, procedure, recovery, risks, and aftercare associated with Rezum therapy. An experienced urologist can help men regain control over their urinary symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life.
