Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy for BPH

Rezum

First

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition that affects a significant number of men, particularly as they age. The resulting symptoms, such as frequent urination, weak stream, and nocturia, can severely impact quality of life. While medications like tamsulosin are often prescribed as a first-line treatment, not every man finds relief with them, and some prefer to avoid long-term medication altogether. Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy is a minimally invasive treatment option, FDA-cleared for symptoms of BPH, that some men consider if medication has not provided enough relief or if they prefer to avoid long-term medication.

What Is Rezūm Therapy?

Rezūm uses water vapor (steam) to treat obstructing prostate tissue in men with BPH. During the procedure, water vapor is delivered through the urethra into the targeted prostate tissue. The treated tissue is gradually reabsorbed by the body over weeks to months, which may relieve pressure on the urethra. In clinical studies, many men had improved urinary flow and fewer urinary symptoms, but results vary from person to person.

Why Consider Rezūm?

1. An FDA-Cleared Treatment Option:

Rezūm received FDA 510(k) clearance in 2015 for the treatment of BPH symptoms in men. Medication is commonly the first treatment for BPH, but men who are dissatisfied with their current treatment or who prefer to avoid long-term medication may wish to discuss Rezūm with their urologist. Whether it is appropriate depends on factors such as symptoms, prostate size and anatomy, and overall health.

2. Evidence for Symptom Improvement:

Rezūm has been studied in clinical trials, including a multicenter randomized, sham-controlled trial. Research published in the Journal of Urology found that, at 3 months, men treated with Rezūm had a greater improvement in their International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) than men who received a sham procedure. Improvements were reported in follow-up of treated men at 12 months and in later reports out to five years, although the longer follow-up was not randomized, and individual results vary.

3. Minimally Invasive, with Variable Recovery:

Rezūm is a minimally invasive procedure that can often be done on an outpatient basis. Many men return to usual activities within a few days, but recovery varies. Common temporary effects include discomfort or burning with urination, blood in the urine or semen, and urinary frequency or urgency. Many men need a temporary urinary catheter after the procedure, and some develop temporary urinary retention or a urinary tract infection. Symptom improvement is gradual and may take weeks to months.

4. Sexual Function in Clinical Studies:

For many men, concerns about sexual function are top of mind when considering BPH treatment options. In clinical trials of Rezūm, erectile function was generally maintained, and a small percentage of men (under 4% in the trial's treated group) reported decreased ejaculatory volume. Sexual side effects can still occur, so it is worth discussing your priorities with your urologist.

Who Should Consider Rezūm?

Rezūm may be an option for some men with moderate to severe BPH symptoms, whether or not they have previously tried medication. In the main clinical trial, participants were men aged 50 or older with a prostate volume of 30 to 80 cc, and Rezūm is not right for everyone. Some men later need additional treatment: in the five-year follow-up, about 4% of treated men had surgery for BPH and about 11% started BPH medication. Your urologist can help you decide whether Rezūm fits your symptoms, prostate anatomy, and goals.

Conclusion

Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy is an FDA-cleared, minimally invasive option for treating BPH symptoms in appropriately selected men. Clinical trials support symptom improvement, but results vary, side effects such as temporary urinary retention, painful urination, or the need for a urinary catheter can occur, and it is not right for everyone. If you’re experiencing urinary symptoms and want to explore your options, schedule a consultation to discuss whether Rezūm is right for you.