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REZŪM THERAPY
What is Rezūm therapy?
Rezūm therapy is a minimally invasive procedure aimed at alleviating the effects of an enlarged prostate. It utilises the power of steam to target and reduce excess prostate tissue, alleviating urinary problems caused by BPH. Rezūm therapy offers an effective alternative to traditional surgical interventions while minimising the risk of complications.
When is Rezūm therapy performed?
Rezūm therapy is typically recommended for men experiencing bothersome urinary symptoms caused by BPH. These symptoms may include frequent urination, weak urine flow, difficulty starting or stopping urination, incomplete bladder emptying, and the urgent need to urinate. Before considering Rezūm therapy, patients undergo a thorough evaluation by a urologist to confirm the diagnosis of BPH and assess their overall health.
How is Rezūm therapy performed?
Rezūm therapy is performed in an outpatient setting, meaning no overnight hospital stay is required. To ensure patient comfort throughout the process, the procedure commences by administering either local or general anaesthesia. Using a specialised device, the urologist inserts a small tube, called a delivery device, into the urethra. The delivery device is equipped with a tiny needle that emits steam.
Once the delivery device is properly positioned within the prostate, steam is released in short bursts. The steam generated by Rezūm therapy has a temperature of around 103 degrees Celsius (or 217 degrees Fahrenheit). This hot steam interacts with the excess prostate tissue, causing the cells to undergo a process known as necrosis. Gradually, the body gradually absorbs the necrotic tissue. Consequently, this can lead to a reduction in prostate size and improved urinary flow.
Variations in the duration of the Rezūm therapy procedure can occur due to the size and structure of the prostate, thereby influencing its length. Typically, the procedure takes around 4-8 minutes to complete, on average. After the procedure, patients are usually subject to short-term monitoring to detect any immediate complications. In the majority of cases, individuals can resume their usual activities within a few days, although they may be advised to abstain from intense physical exertion and sexual intercourse for a couple of weeks.
Rezūm therapy provides a number of advantages compared to traditional surgical approaches. It is a targeted treatment that minimises damage to surrounding tissues, resulting in fewer side effects, such as erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory dysfunction. Furthermore, this procedure boasts a swift recovery period and eliminates the need for prolonged medication usage. Nevertheless, like any medical intervention, it is imperative to have a thorough discussion with the urologist regarding the potential risks and benefits to ascertain the most suitable course of action.
FAQ
Is Rezūm therapy painful?
Rezūm therapy is generally well-tolerated by patients. The procedure is performed under anaesthesia to ensure comfort during the treatment. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or temporary urinary symptoms after the procedure, but these typically resolve within a few weeks.
Are there any side effects associated with Rezūm therapy?
Rezūm therapy has a favourable side effect profile compared to traditional surgical interventions. Common side effects include temporary increased urination frequency, urgency, and discomfort during urination. Sexual function is generally preserved with Rezūm therapy, unlike some surgical treatments.
What is the typical timeframe for symptom improvement after undergoing Rezūm therapy?
A significant number of patients notice an improvement in their urinary symptoms within a few weeks after receiving Rezūm therapy. However, it's important to note that full benefits may take several months to manifest as the necrotic prostate tissue undergoes gradual reabsorption by the body.
