Treatment

Water Vapor Therapy (Rezum Procedure)

Overview

Water Vapor Therapy, also known as the Rezum Procedure, is a minimally invasive treatment used to relieve symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) – an enlarged prostate. This therapy uses natural water vapor (steam) to shrink excess prostate tissue that is blocking urine flow. It is done without any major cuts or surgery, making it a popular choice for men who want a quick, effective and non-surgical option.

Why Water Vapor Therapy (Rezum Procedure) is Required?

When men experience urinary problems due to BPH, such as:

• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Weak urine stream
• Difficulty starting or stopping urination
• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
• When medications for BPH cause side effects or stop working
• As a non-surgical BPH treatment option for men who want to avoid TURP or traditional surgery
• For those seeking a quick recovery option with fewer complications
• When urinary retention becomes a concern due to prostate enlargement

Key Advantages of Water Vapor Therapy Treatment

• Minimally invasive with no major cuts or stitches
• Outpatient procedure – often done in a clinic or hospital same-day
• Short recovery time – many resume normal activity within a few days
• Preserves sexual function better than traditional surgery
• Effective even for men with urinary retention
• Lower risk of bleeding compared to TURP
• Long-lasting symptom relief for Rezum therapy candidates
• Can delay or avoid need for long-term medications

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Rezum Procedure Treatment

• Have a detailed consultation with your urologist to confirm BPH diagnosis
• You may be asked to stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, before the procedure
• Avoid eating or drinking for a few hours prior, based on doctor’s instructions
• Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure
• Discuss any allergies or medical conditions with your doctor
• Understand the potential benefits, risks and expectations of the treatment

How Water Vapor Therapy (Rezum Procedure) Treatment is Performed?

• The procedure is performed using a small instrument inserted into the urethra
• It delivers controlled bursts of water vapor (steam) into the prostate tissue
• The steam causes the targeted tissue to die and over time, the body naturally reabsorbs it
• The entire process takes around 10–15 minutes
• No major incisions and anesthesia is often local or mild sedation

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

• Before Procedure:
• Evaluation tests like urine flow tests or ultrasound may be done
• Instructions will be given on fasting or stopping certain medications
• During Procedure:
• Local anesthesia is used for comfort
• The doctor performs the procedure through the urethra
• Short, controlled bursts of steam are applied to treat the enlarged areas
• After Procedure:
• You may go home the same day
• A temporary catheter may be placed for a few days
• Mild discomfort, burning during urination, or increased frequency may occur
• Most men return to normal routines within 2–3 days

Risk and Potential Complications

• Temporary burning or discomfort during urination
• Urinary retention requiring catheter placement for a few days
• Mild bleeding in urine
• Increased urgency or frequency of urination temporarily
• Infection (rare and treatable)
• Rare chance of needing a repeat procedure

Results/Outcomes

• Most patients see noticeable improvement in urine flow and symptom relief within 2–6 weeks
• Rezum therapy success rate is high for properly selected candidates
• Many avoid the need for lifelong BPH medications
• It helps preserve normal ejaculation and sexual function
• Before and after Rezum therapy, patients report better sleep, less urgency, and improved quality of life
• Effectiveness for urinary retention is proven in many clinical cases