Answer:

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), an enlarged prostate, is a common condition in men, with the incidence increasing with age, typically affecting those 50 and older. BPH presses on the urethra and bladder, causing urinary problems and impacting quality of life. Untreated, it can lead to complications such as urinary tract infections and bladder stones.

Treatment options for BPH include medication and surgery (for those who don't respond to medication or have complications). Since medication isn't working for you, you should visit a hospital for an examination and personalized treatment plan. Surgical options include open surgery, transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), transurethral laser enucleation of the prostate (TUEP), and water vapor thermal therapy.

Doctor Nguyen Tan Cuong examines and advises a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor Nguyen Tan Cuong examines and advises a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

The water vapor thermal therapy you mentioned is the Rezum water vapor therapy for BPH. It's a non-surgical procedure taking about 15 minutes, with a quick recovery time. Rezum uses sterile water vapor, releasing thermal energy that targets and destroys prostate tissue around the urethra. Over time, the prostate shrinks, and the urinary tract widens.

This therapy is currently used at the Urology Department, Center for Urology - Nephrology - Andrology, Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM. The doctor determines the required number of treatments based on the patient's prostate size. After Rezum treatment, bladder outlet obstruction is removed, improving urine flow and reducing lower urinary tract symptoms like frequent urination, urinary retention, and incomplete emptying.

This method also helps maintain sexual function without negatively affecting erectile or ejaculatory function. Most patients experience symptom relief within two weeks, with maximum effectiveness within three months.

To determine the right treatment for you, consult a doctor for a personalized plan based on your condition and current health.

Doctor Nguyen Tan Cuong

Deputy Head of Urology Department

Center for Urology - Nephrology - Andrology

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM