Everything you need to know about Rezum

What is BPH?  

BPH stands for Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy - in essence the natural enlargement of the prostate that occurs with aging. This is not a cancerous process, but gradually causes obstruction of the bladder outlet which is where the prostate is. The typical symptoms are reduced speed of flow of urine and increased frequency due to the bladder not emptying properly. Other symptoms that are associated are urgency and getting up at night to pee (nocturia).

What is Rezum?

Rezum is a new treatment that involves injecting steam into the obstructing prostate tissue which is accessed via your water pipe. The prostate tissue is injured by the steam and is then gradually reabsorbed by the body which reduces the obstruction caused by the enlarged prostate and therefore improves your flow.

How is Rezum different to other BPH treatments available?

Rezum is carried out as a day case procedure and is less time consuming than other procedures for enlarged prostate. Prostates vary in size and shape and Rezum is suitable for most prostates. There should be no risk of incontinence and <5% chance of reduced ejaculation or erectile dysfunction after the procedure.

What is the recovery time after the Rezum procedure?

Patients will need a catheter for typically four to seven days after the procedure (depends on the size of prostate and amount of steam injected). The full benefits are not seen for six to twelve weeks as this is the length of time it takes for the prostate tissue to fully reabsorb.

Will my insurance cover the Rezum procedure?

Yes, all major insurance companies cover the Rezum procedure.

Mr Freddie Banks is a Consultant Urologist at Spire Bushey Hospital. 

For more information on Rezum click here.