What Is the Rezum Procedure Everything You Need to Know Before Treatment
The Rezum Procedure is a modern, minimally invasive medical treatment designed to relieve urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate. For men who struggle with frequent urination, weak urine flow, urgency, or disrupted sleep, the Rezum Procedure offers an effective alternative to long-term medication or traditional surgery.
Before choosing any medical treatment, understanding how it works, who it is suitable for, and what to expect before and after the procedure is essential. This guide explains the Rezum Procedure in detail so patients can make informed and confident decisions.
What Exactly Is the Rezum Procedure
The Rezum Procedure is a minimally invasive treatment that uses controlled water vapor energy to reduce excess prostate tissue. Instead of cutting, shaving, or removing tissue surgically, the procedure delivers short bursts of steam directly into targeted areas of the prostate.
When the water vapor comes into contact with prostate tissue, it releases stored thermal energy. This energy causes the treated cells to break down naturally. Over time, the body absorbs this tissue, which reduces pressure on the urinary channel and improves urine flow.
The Rezum Procedure works with the body’s natural healing process rather than forcing immediate tissue removal.
Why the Rezum Procedure Was Developed
Traditional prostate treatments were effective but often involved longer recovery times, hospital stays, and higher risk of side effects. Many men delayed treatment because they feared surgery or long-term complications.
The Rezum Procedure was developed to offer a safer, less invasive option that still provides meaningful symptom relief. It focuses on precision, recovery comfort, and preservation of normal bodily functions.
This approach makes treatment accessible to a wider range of patients, including those who want to avoid major procedures.
How the Rezum Procedure Works Step by Step
The Rezum Procedure is performed using a specialized handheld device inserted through the natural urinary passage. No incisions are required.
Once the device reaches the prostate, short injections of water vapor are delivered into selected areas of excess tissue. Each injection lasts only a few seconds. The number of applications depends on prostate size and anatomy.
The entire procedure usually takes less than 15 minutes. Patients are monitored briefly afterward and typically return home the same day.
Who Should Consider the Rezum Procedure
The Rezum Procedure is suitable for men who experience persistent urinary symptoms that interfere with daily life. It is often recommended for those who:
Do not get enough relief from medications
Experience medication side effects
Want to avoid traditional surgery
Prefer a minimally invasive option
A proper medical evaluation is required before treatment. Doctors assess prostate size, symptom severity, and overall health to determine whether the Rezum Procedure is appropriate.
Who May Not Be a Suitable Candidate
While the Rezum Procedure benefits many patients, it may not be suitable for everyone. Men with extremely large prostates or advanced urinary complications may require alternative treatments.
Certain anatomical factors may also influence eligibility. A detailed consultation and imaging evaluation help ensure the best treatment choice.
Preparing for the Rezum Procedure
Preparation for the Rezum Procedure is usually simple. Patients may be asked to undergo urine tests, imaging studies, and symptom assessments before treatment.
Doctors review current medications and may adjust them temporarily. Patients typically receive instructions regarding eating, drinking, and medication use on the day of the procedure.
Understanding the steps ahead of time helps reduce anxiety and improves the overall experience.
What to Expect on the Day of the Rezum Procedure
On the day of treatment, the Rezum Procedure is performed in a clinic or hospital setting. Local anesthesia is commonly used, sometimes with mild sedation for comfort.
Patients remain awake but relaxed. The procedure itself is brief, and discomfort is usually minimal.
Afterward, patients are observed for a short time before being discharged with clear recovery instructions.
Immediate Aftereffects to Expect
Following the Rezum Procedure, temporary urinary symptoms are common. These may include:
Mild burning during urination
Increased urgency or frequency
Slight blood in urine
Temporary difficulty emptying the bladder
Some patients may require a short-term urinary catheter to support bladder emptying during early healing. These effects are temporary and improve as healing progresses.