Efficacy of Rezūm water vapor therapy for the treatment of catheter-dependent urinary retention

Abstract

Introduction: Urinary retention secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) requiring catheterization is a prevalent and morbid condition. The objective of this study was to evaluate the real-world efficacy and safety of Rezūm as the primary treatment of catheter-dependent urinary retention. Methods: A single-center, retrospective study analyzed patients with catheter-dependent urinary retention secondary to BPH who were treated with Rezūm between April 2022 and April 2024. Standardized postoperative followup was required for inclusion. Patient demographics, medication use, volume drained at time of urinary retention, catheter-free status, complications, and postoperative International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) was collected. Results: A total of 53 patients were included. Mean age was 73.4 years (standard deviation 9.4), and the mean Charlson comorbidity index score was 3.7. The baseline mean prostate volume was 81.7 (range 33–179) mL. Patients were catheter-dependent for an average of 225 (range 30–1821) days prior to surgical intervention. Average followup time was 10.2 months. Of the 53 patients treated, 42 (79%) patients were able to become catheter-free after treatment. Twenty-six (49%) patients failed their initial trial of void at 14 days postoperatively; 11% (n=6) of patients experienced hematuria with one admitted to hospital due to hematuria/clot retention. There were no Clavien Dindo >3 complications. Only retention volume ≥1 L was a significant independent predictor of treatment failure on univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Conclusions: Rezūm effectively treated catheter-dependent urinary retention. Given the simplicity of treatment, accessibility, and minimal anesthetic requirements, providers should consider Rezūm to minimize indwelling catheter-related morbidity for catheter-dependant patients.