A minimally invasive treatment for an enlarged prostate is now being performed in Brazil

From the age of 40, an enlarged prostate is a common occurrence. This male gland is responsible for the production of seminal fluid that nourishes the sperm. But this increase, called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), can lead to urinary problems, such as an increased need to urinate, including having to get up more often during the night to urinate, and decreased force of urinary jetting.

Conventional treatment for BPH involves continuing medication or performing procedures that may impair sexual function. However, this year a new treatment has arrived in Brazil and is being implemented in a pioneering manner in some hospitals in the country. This procedure does not require anesthesia or hospitalization.

Technology and precision

The Rezum technology, which has been in use in the United States since 2015, uses water vapor to return the prostate to its normal position, or at least to reduce its size. “The steam is injected into the prostate at the right temperature, location, and depth. The machine does this whole process through the urinary tract with little sedation. The patient stays asleep during the procedure, for about 20 minutes, and can go home shortly after,” explains the urologist at the hospital. Sao Marcelino Champagne, Marc Neumayer, who was using this technique in the hospital. One of the main advantages of treatment is the preservation of ejaculation. “It’s a much less invasive procedure, which makes it possible to return to normal activities more quickly,” he adds.

treatment indication

An enlarged prostate is usually associated with aging in men. The Rezum technique is indicated for patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia or who have symptoms of urethral dysfunction, the need to urinate frequently and the need to get up several times during the night to urinate. This procedure is also recommended for men who are using medications for an enlarged prostate and want to stop treatment.