RezūmTM Thermotherapy for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
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What is it?
RezūmTM is a minimally-invasive office procedure intended to relieve bothersome symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), otherwise knowns as enlarged prostate. The Rezūm system is a technology that uses hot, sterile water in the form of steam to treat obstructing prostate tissue in your urinary channel. This process is called thermotherapy.
The procedure involves passing a small camera through the urethra to the level of the prostate. Once at the prostate level, a radiofrequency generator heats up the water, and hot vapor is used to treat the prostate tissue. The camera is then removed, and the procedure is over in under 5 minutes.
This procedure has been validated in multiple studies to be safe and effective; the treated prostate tissue sloughs off, relieving blockage in the urinary channel, and symptoms dramatically improve over a span of weeks to months. There is minimal bleeding and patients can be treated with a combination of local anesthesia to the prostate combined with Nitrous Oxide laughing gas..
Am I a Candidate for Rezum?
RezūmTM has been created as an alternative to daily medications, which can carry significant side effects. Additionally, it is much less invasive than a major surgical procedure like a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), which requires hospitalization and carries sexual side effects. Once treated, patients typically note dramatic improvements in urinary flow, can hold urine better during day or night, and can discontinue medications for the long-term.
Who cannot get Rezūm Treatments?
While RezūmTM is safe and effective for most men, certain situations will preclude treatment with this technology. Another type of treatment may be necessary if you have the following:
- An Artificial Urethral Sphincter (AUS)
- A Penile Prosthesis
- Recurrent or Chronic Urinary Tract Infections
- A Prostate Too Large for a Minimally-Invasive Procedure (rare)
- Bleeding Disorders
Is Rezūm Safe?
Rezūm is a safe office procedure. All possible precautions will be taken while completing the procedure. Talk with your doctor if you are taking medications that thin your blood or if you take aspirin as these will need to be temporarily stopped.
After the procedure patients may note difficult or painful urination, blood in the urine or sperm, urinary frequency, or rarely the inability to urinate. These issues usually resolve with time and are not permanent. There are no reported cases of new onset erectile dysfunction after Rezūm. Repeat treatment of the prostate in the future is rare.
About Your Consultation with Dr. Dhir
Patients in need of RezūmTM thermotherapy in order to find relief for their BPH will need to schedule a consultation. The visit will involve answering questions regarding the condition, along with discussions about what the procedure will involve. Questions about medical history, general health, and expectations will also be asked.
If the patient has any concerns or questions regarding the RezūmTM thermotherapy procedure, this would be the best time to have them addressed. Topics like the cost of the treatment can also be brought up during the consultation. Typically, patients are evaluated with a urine flow test, cystoscopy, and transrectal ultrasound prior to procedure scheduling to ensure proper diagnosis and outcome.
What is Rezūm Thermotherapy Aftercare?
A foley catheter draining the bladder will remain for 5-7 days after treatment. There is no significant downtime or recovery period involved with RezūmTM thermotherapy. However, patients will be advised not to do anything that would involve significant physical strain, such as heavy lifting, since that could cause bleeding. Dr. Dhir will prescribe antibiotics as well as medications to calm the bladder and decrease burning when urinating.
What is Rezūm Thermotherapy Cost?
The cost of RezūmTM thermotherapy varies depending on your insurance company and benefits. Most insurance plans are covering this treatment, and if Rezum is right for you our trained staff will speak with your insurance provider to make the process of scheduling seamless.
Frequently asked questions:
What is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)?
BPH is a condition when the prostate gland in the male reproductive tract increases in size and is not due to cancer. For more information on BPH, click here.
What are other treatment options for BPH?
Other treatments include medications and alternative surgical options. Dr. Dhir has expertise in performing GreenLight Laser Therapy, Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP), and UroLift.
How much does RezūmTM cost?
The cost of the procedure varies depending on your insurance company and benefits. Most insurance plans are covering this treatment, and if Rezum is right for you our trained staff will speak with your insurance provider to make the process of scheduling seamless.
How long will I have to stay in the hospital after RezūmTM?
You don’t have to stay at all! One of the benefits of this minimally-invasive procedure is that it can be done at your doctor’s office and you can go home immediately after.
How long until I can go back to work?
Most men return to their regular activity levels within a few days, but this is an individual decision that your doctor will discuss with you. If your job involves significant activity you will likely need to take 7 days off after the procedure.
Schedule Your Consultation
To set up an appointment for a consultation regarding RezūmTM thermotherapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia in Clear Lake, Texas, contact HTX Urology. Dr. Dhir will be happy to help you get the treatment you need.