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REZUM PROCEDURE for BPH TREATMENT

Minimally Invasive Rezum for Inflamed Prostate Treatment, Los Angeles, CA

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doctor pointing to a plastic model of a prostate

Best Rezum Procedure in Los Angeles, CA

Up to 50% of men 60 and older have benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or an enlarged prostate. Rezūm™ provides a safe and effective way to reduce uncomfortable symptoms associated with BPH and improve your quality of life. At Comprehensive Urology in the Beverly Grove neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, the board-certified urologists use Rezūm to safely remove excess prostate tissue. Make an appointment today by calling the office or clicking the online booking form.

Table of Contents

Rezum Procedure Q&A

What is Rezum?

Rezum procedure is a minimally invasive treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) that uses the natural energy stored in a few drops of water to treat the excess prostate tissue causing BPH symptoms. This procedure is targeted to a defined area because steam will travel only between cells until it encounters natural collagen barriers or the prostate capsule itself. The therapy involves inserting sterile water vapor (steam) into the prostate gland during nine-second treatments.

Rezum Procedure Summary

  • Rezum procedure is a minimally invasive treatment for BPH that uses the natural energy stored in a few drops of water to treat the excess prostate tissue causing BPH symptoms.

  • The therapy involves inserting sterile water vapor (steam) into the prostate gland during nine-second treatments.

  • The method for treating an enlarged prostate is minimally invasive, and the patient can get back in the game quickly, as there is no need to be in the hospital and no need to continue taking costly BPH medications.

The Science Behind the Rezum Procedure

Rezum uses heat from steam to reduce the size of the prostate gland, relieving pressure on the urethra and improving urine flow.

The Rezum system works by delivering water vapor to the prostate tissue using a small, flexible delivery device inserted through the urethra. The water vapor is delivered in short pulses, causing the cells in the prostate tissue to expand and rupture. Over time, the body’s natural healing process removes the damaged tissue, reducing the size of the prostate gland.

Clinical studies have shown that the Rezum procedure is effective in reducing LUTS caused by BPH, with improvements in urine flow rate, symptom score, and quality of life. In a study of 197 men with moderate to severe LUTS, 87% reported improvement in symptoms after undergoing the Rezum procedure.

One advantage of Rezum over other BPH treatments is that it has a low rate of sexual side effects. Unlike traditional surgical procedures, Rezum does not require cutting or removal of prostate tissue, which can damage the nerves and blood vessels that control sexual function. In fact, some studies have shown that Rezum may actually improve sexual function in some men.

Overall, Rezum is a safe and effective treatment option for men with LUTS caused by BPH. It is minimally invasive, has a short recovery time, and has a low risk of sexual side effects. While not suitable for all patients, it offers an attractive alternative to traditional surgical treatments for BPH.

Rezum Procedure in Action

During the procedure, a small device is inserted into the urethra, and water vapor is released into the prostate tissue. The heat from the steam causes the prostate cells to die and shrink, which relieves pressure on the urethra and improves urinary symptoms.

Rezum procedure is performed in an outpatient setting and typically takes less than an hour to complete. Patients may experience mild discomfort during the procedure, but anesthesia is not required.

According to clinical studies, Rezum procedure has been shown to provide significant improvement in urinary symptoms and quality of life for men with BPH. It is also associated with a low risk of side effects, such as painful or frequent urination, blood in the urine or semen, and decreased ejaculatory volume.

Overall, Rezum procedure is a safe and effective treatment option for men with BPH who want to avoid more invasive surgical procedures. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if Rezum procedure is the right treatment option for each individual case.

Rezum Procedure Steps

The procedure typically takes less than an hour and is performed in a urologist’s office or outpatient surgery facility. Here are the steps involved in the Rezum procedure:

  1. Preparation: Before the procedure, the patient will be given local anesthesia to numb the area. The patient may also be given antibiotics to prevent infection.
  2. Insertion of Device: The urologist will insert a small, hand-held device into the patient’s urethra and position it near the prostate.
  3. Injection of Steam: The device will then release a controlled amount of steam into the targeted prostate tissue. The steam will quickly heat up the tissue to a temperature that will cause the cells to die.
  4. Repeat: The urologist will repeat this process several times, injecting steam into different areas of the prostate until enough tissue has been destroyed.
  5. Recovery: After the procedure, the patient may experience some discomfort or pain while urinating. This is normal and should subside within a few days. The patient should avoid strenuous activity for a few days and drink plenty of fluids to help flush out any remaining tissue.
  6. Follow-Up: The patient will need to follow up with their urologist to monitor their progress and ensure that the procedure was successful. In some cases, additional treatments may be necessary to achieve the desired results.

Overall, the Rezum procedure is a safe and effective treatment option for men suffering from BPH. It offers a quick and minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgical procedures, with fewer complications and a faster recovery time.

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How do I prepare for the Rezum Procedure

Before the procedure, the doctor may stop anticoagulants (blood thinners) a few days to a week prior and prescribe antibiotics. The doctor will discuss any pain medications that will be used. The procedure is performed by going up through the urethra and using an instrument that turns water into steam. The steam delivery lasts only seconds, making the method for treating an enlarged prostate minimally invasive. The patient can get back in the game quickly, as there is no need to be in the hospital and no need to continue taking costly BPH medications.

How do I prepare for the Rezum Procedure


1. Medications: Patients should inform their doctor of all the medications they are taking, including over-the-counter and prescription drugs. Depending on the medications, the doctor may advise the patient to stop taking them a few days before the procedure. Blood thinners, for example, may need to be stopped to reduce the risk of bleeding during the procedure.
2. Urine Sample: The patient must submit a urine sample for analysis within one month of the procedure. This is to ensure that there is no bacterial infection present, which could complicate the procedure.
3. Diet: On the day of the procedure, a light meal is recommended, along with plenty of fluids. Patients should avoid consuming alcohol and caffeine, which can interfere with the procedure.
4. Clothing: Patients should wear comfortable clothing on the day of the procedure. Loose-fitting pants are recommended, as the patient will be lying down for the duration of the procedure.
5. Transportation: Patients should arrange for transportation to and from the clinic on the day of the procedure. They should not drive themselves home after the procedure, as they may experience dizziness or discomfort.
By following these guidelines, patients can ensure that they are well-prepared for the Rezum procedure and can increase the likelihood of a successful outcome.

Post Rezum Procedure Care

After the Rezum procedure, patients may experience some discomfort and mild pain, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. It is also common to experience some blood in the urine or semen for a few weeks after the procedure. Patients should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for at least two weeks after the procedure to allow the body to heal.

Patients will have a catheter inserted during the procedure, which will be removed within a few days after the procedure. It is important to follow the urologist’s instructions on how to care for the catheter and when to remove it.

It is also important to drink plenty of fluids, particularly water, after the procedure to help flush out any remaining prostate tissue and prevent infection. Patients should avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can irritate the bladder and increase the frequency of urination.

Patients should also continue to take any prescribed medications, such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs, as directed by the urologist. It is important to attend all follow-up appointments to ensure that the procedure was successful and to monitor for any complications.

Overall, following proper post-procedure care instructions can help ensure a successful recovery and improved urinary symptoms for patients who undergo the Rezum procedure.

Benefits of the Rezum Procedure

One of the main benefits of the Rezum procedure is that it is a safe and effective alternative to traditional BPH treatments, such as medication or surgery. Unlike medication, which can cause side effects such as dizziness, headaches, and sexual dysfunction, the Rezum procedure has minimal side effects and does not require ongoing medication use.

Another benefit of the Rezum procedure is that it is a quick and relatively painless procedure. The procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting and takes less than an hour to complete. Patients may experience discomfort during the procedure, but this is usually mild and can be managed with local anesthesia.

Additionally, the Rezum procedure has a high success rate, with many patients experiencing significant improvement in their BPH symptoms within a few weeks of the procedure. In fact, studies have shown that up to 90% of patients who undergo the Rezum procedure experience significant symptom relief. It offers many benefits for men with BPH, including a safe and effective alternative to traditional treatments, a quick and relatively painless procedure, and a high success rate with minimal side effects.

Risks and Downside of the Rezum Procedure

As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with Rezum Water Vapor Therapy. The most common risks include painful or frequent urination, blood in the urine or semen, a decrease in ejaculatory volume, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). These risks are generally mild and resolve on their own within a few weeks.
 
In rare cases, more serious complications can occur. For example, some patients may experience difficulty urinating or completely emptying their bladder after the procedure. This can lead to urinary retention, which may require catheterization to relieve. Additionally, some patients may experience an urgent need to urinate or urinary incontinence.
 

Another rare complication is prostatic tissue sloughing, which occurs when the treated prostate tissue dies and is excreted from the body. This can cause pain and discomfort, and may require further medical intervention.
It is important to note that these risks and complications are relatively uncommon, and the vast majority of patients experience a successful outcome with minimal side effects. Patients should discuss their individual risk factors with their healthcare provider before undergoing the procedure.
Patients with very large prostates may not be good candidates for Rezum. Please consult a board certified urologist for the best treatment options.

For patients with very large inflamed prostates, we offer other treatment options such as:
 

 

Rezum Vs TURP

Compared to other treatments like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), Greenlight laser, and Holmium laser, Rezum has several advantages. 

Rezum Advantages:

  1. Rezum is a quick and painless procedure that can be performed in an outpatient setting, and it has a short recovery time. Patients can return to their normal activities within a few days, unlike TURP, which requires a hospital stay and several weeks of recovery time.
  2. Rezum has fewer side effects than other treatments. While TURP and Greenlight laser can cause sexual dysfunction and retrograde ejaculation, Rezum has a lower risk of these side effects.
  3. Rezum does not require general anesthesia, which can be risky for some patients.

 

However, Rezum is not always the best treatment option for every patient. Schedule a consult with Dr. Michel today to find out if you’re a candidate for Rezum.

Rezum Vs Aquablation

Rezum and aquablation are two new minimally invasive procedures for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common prostate condition causing urinary symptoms in older men. Rezum uses steam energy to reduce excess prostate tissue while aquablation utilizes water jets. Both procedures aim to relieve lower urinary tract symptoms by removing obstructing prostate tissue and opening the urethra.

Clinical studies show Rezum and aquablation significantly improve urine flow and quality of life in BPH patients. Aquablation provides faster symptom relief but requires postoperative catheterization. Rezum has minimal downtime but some patients report temporary difficulty urinating after treatment. Aquablation is better for larger prostates while Rezum has size limitations. Consult a board certified urologist to see which procedure would work best for your condition.

Rezum Procedure Vs. Other BPH Treatments

Compared to other treatments like transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), Greenlight laser, and Holmium laser, Rezum has several advantages. 

Rezum Advantages:

  1. Rezum is a quick and painless procedure that can be performed in an outpatient setting, and it has a short recovery time. Patients can return to their normal activities within a few days, unlike TURP, which requires a hospital stay and several weeks of recovery time.
  2. Rezum has fewer side effects than other treatments. While TURP and Greenlight laser can cause sexual dysfunction and retrograde ejaculation, Rezum has a lower risk of these side effects.
  3. Rezum does not require general anesthesia, which can be risky for some patients.

However, Rezum is not always the best treatment option for every patient. Please consult a board certified urologist for the best treatment option for your case.

Patient Testimonials

Rezum has helped many men find lasting relief from the symptoms of BPH. Here are some patient testimonials that illustrate the effectiveness of the Rezum procedure:

  • John, 65: “Before the Rezum, I had to get up every night to urinate. I also had to plan my day around bathroom breaks. Since the procedure, I feel like I have my life back.”

  • Gary, 57: “The recovery was quicker than I thought it would be and I feel like I did 10 years ago before all this started happening.”

  • Mark, 62: “I was skeptical about the Rezum procedure at first, but Dr. Michel answered all of my questions without any hesitation. I decided to give it a try. I’m so glad I did. My symptoms have improved dramatically, and I don’t have to worry about taking medications anymore.”

These testimonials demonstrate the positive impact that the Rezum procedure can have on the lives of men with BPH. If you are experiencing symptoms of BPH, talk to your doctor about whether the Rezum procedure may be right for you.

Conclusion

The Rezum procedure is a minimally invasive therapy for treating BPH that has demonstrated clinical effectiveness and possesses specific benefits that distinguish it among other treatments. Available studies point towards good clinical outcomes with a short-term risk of self-limiting minor complications. The therapy has potential benefits for both patients and medical practices.

Real-world four-year functional and surgical outcomes of Rezum show that there were no significant differences in IPSS, QoL, or adverse events between elderly and younger men over 4 years following Rezum, suggesting comparable benefits and risks. Rezum therapy is an effective and safe minimal invasive therapeutic option for patients with BPH related LUTS.

In total, 92 Rezum procedures were performed in the observational period. All interventions were completed without device- or procedure-related adverse events. Rezum is an effective and safe minimal invasive therapeutic option for patients with BPH related LUTS.

Rezum did not significantly decrease prostate size for either cohort, which contrasts previously reported findings of reductions in prostate volume approaching 30% within 6 months after Rezum. However, this conclusion is limited by the small sample of patients that were reimaged postoperatively.

Who is a candidate for Rezum therapy?

Rezum therapy is a suitable treatment option for a wide range of patients, including elderly patients, those with poor heart conditions, those on blood-thinning medications, and young men.

You might be a candidate if you:

  • Are 50 or older
  • Have a prostate volume of between 30cm3 ≤ 80cm3
  • Don’t want to take medication for BPH
  • Don’t want to undergo surgery for BPH

Before undergoing the Rezum procedure, patients should review their medical records, discuss their symptoms, and undergo a physical exam. This will help their Comprehensive Urology provider develop a custom treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs.

It is important to note that the Rezum procedure may not be suitable for everyone. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider to determine if the Rezum procedure is the right treatment option for them.

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FAQ's

What is the recovery time for the Rezum Procedure?

The recovery time for the Rezum procedure is relatively short. Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a few days after the procedure. However, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and avoid any strenuous activity for at least a week after the procedure.

What are the Rezum Procedure Side Effects?

As with any medical procedure, there are potential side effects associated with the Rezum procedure. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or pain during urination for a few days after the procedure. Other potential side effects may include blood in the urine, frequent urination, and urinary tract infections. However, these side effects are usually temporary and resolve on their own within a few days to a week.

How long does the Rezum Procedure take to perform?

The Rezum procedure typically takes about an hour to perform. However, this may vary depending on the size of the prostate and other individual factors. The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis, which means that patients can go home the same day.

What is the success rate of the Rezum Procedure?

The success rate of the Rezum procedure is high. Studies have shown that the procedure is effective in reducing symptoms of an enlarged prostate in the majority of patients. However, the success rate may vary depending on individual factors such as the size of the prostate and the severity of symptoms.

Can the Rezum Procedure be performed with local anesethisia?

Yes, the Rezum procedure can be performed under local anesthesia. This means that patients are awake during the procedure but are given medication to numb the area being treated. However, some patients may prefer to undergo the procedure under general anesthesia, which means that they are asleep during the procedure.

What's the cost of the Rezum Procedure?

The cost of the Rezum procedure may vary depending on a number of factors, including the location of the procedure and the individual patient’s insurance coverage. Patients should contact their healthcare provider or insurance company for more information about the cost of the procedure.

How does Rezum therapy work for BPH?

Rezum water therapy is an outpatient procedure that takes one appointment.

During treatment, your Comprehensive Urology provider uses sterile water vapor to carefully shrink your excess prostate tissue. As your prostate shrinks, your urethra opens up, making it easier to urinate. Your prostate will continue to shrink in the days and weeks.

Is the Rezum procedure painful?

Rezum therapy is safe and usually well-tolerated but can cause minor discomfort. Your Comprehensive Urology provider can prescribe oral sedation or local anesthesia if you have low pain tolerance.

When will I experience Rezum results?

Many men experience a significant reduction in their urge to urinate. Some people notice relief right away, but for others, it takes several weeks. Most men experience the maximum benefits about 12 weeks after their first treatment.*

What is recovery like after the Rezum procedure?

After completing the treatment, take it easy. Drink fluids and get plenty of rest. Avoid strenuous exercise and other intense physical activity for at least a week. Your Comprehensive Urology provider will make recovery recommendations that align with your age, level of physical fitness, and needs.

Make an appointment today at Comprehensive Urology to see if you can benefit from Rezūm water therapy. Call the office or click the online booking feature.

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COMPREHENSIVE UROLOGY

+1 (310) 278-8330

  • KIA MICHEL, M.D.
  • ROBERT S. SANFORD, M.D.
  • DINO T. DECONCINI, M.D.
  • JEANNIE SU, M.D.
  • ALEX NOURIAN, M.D.
Address: 8631 W. 3rd St., Suite #1115E, Los Angeles, CA 90048

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