Doctors at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City noted that Mr. Phuong’s prostate was about 70 ml, nearly twice the normal size. The middle lobe of the prostate protruded into the bladder, causing difficulty urinating and frequent urination. His PSA level was 10.6 ng/mL (normal is under 4 ng/mL), indicating a high risk of prostate cancer. However, a biopsy revealed benign results.

Mr. Phuong’s long-standing enlarged prostate caused severe urinary problems, and medication and herbal remedies had been ineffective. He experienced difficulty urinating, frequent urination, and sexual dysfunction. Associate Professor, Doctor Nguyen Tan Cuong, Deputy Head of the Urology Department, Urology - Nephrology - Andrology Center, recommended the minimally invasive Rezum water vapor therapy.

Doctor Cuong (right) and Associate Professor, Doctor Phan Duc Huu using Rezum therapy to treat Mr. Phuong's enlarged prostate. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor Cuong (right) and Associate Professor, Doctor Phan Duc Huu using Rezum therapy to treat Mr. Phuong's enlarged prostate. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Rezum water vapor therapy is a new surgical technique for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia. This incisionless, non-surgical procedure uses water vapor heat to destroy prostate tissue pressing on the urethra without damaging surrounding structures, reducing the risk of complications. Rezum does not affect erectile function or cause retrograde ejaculation, preserving male sexual function.

Each 9-second steam injection delivers sterile water vapor throughout the targeted prostate tissue. Upon contact, the vapor releases stored thermal energy, destroying the cells. Doctors determine the number of treatments needed based on the patient's prostate characteristics and size. Over time, the body's natural healing response absorbs the treated tissue, shrinking the prostate. As the excess tissue is removed, the urethra widens, relieving urinary symptoms caused by the enlargement. The procedure takes about 15 minutes.

Mr. Phuong recovered quickly after the treatment, experiencing no pain and able to eat and walk almost normally. He was discharged the same day. After 10 days, his urination improved significantly, and the frequent urination and slight burning sensation gradually subsided within three months.

Rezum water vapor therapy treats benign prostatic hyperplasia. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Rezum water vapor therapy treats benign prostatic hyperplasia. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is common in older men, with incidence increasing with age. Risk factors include older age, family history, being overweight or obese, and a sedentary lifestyle.

An enlarged prostate causes urinary problems that, if left untreated, can impact quality of life and lead to complications such as urinary tract infections, bladder stones, blood in the urine, urinary retention, and kidney failure. Treatment typically begins with lifestyle changes and medication. If these are ineffective or complications arise, surgery may be necessary. The specific surgical method is chosen based on the individual case.

Ha Thanh

*The patient's name has been changed.