Water Vapor Therapy (Rezum Procedure)

Overview

Water Vapor Therapy, also known as the Rezum Procedure, it 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?

1. Before Procedure:

Evaluation tests like urine flow tests or ultrasound may be done

Instructions will be given on fasting or stopping certain medications

2. 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

3. 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