Water Vapor Therapy for Enlarged Prostate (BPH)
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in men aged 40 and older. Primary symptoms include a weak urine stream, incomplete emptying, frequent urination, urgency, and in some cases, the inability to urinate. This is caused by the abnormal growth of prostate cells narrowing the urethra. Traditionally, treatment involved long-term medication or invasive surgery.
Today, Water Vapor Therapy has emerged as a highly effective and safe alternative. This technology is FDA-approved in both the United States and Thailand.
How Does Water Vapor Therapy Work?
This minimally invasive procedure uses only sterile water vapor (steam) and takes only 10–15 minutes. A specialist inserts a small scope through the urethra to reach the prostate and injects steam into the obstructive prostate tissue. The steam causes the targeted cells to die instantly. Over time, the body naturally absorbs the dead tissue, causing the prostate to shrink and the urethra to widen, restoring normal urinary flow.
Advantages of Water Vapor Therapy
This is a non-surgical procedure that does not require general anesthesia or large incisions. Because it is quick and precise, patients experience minimal pain, very little blood loss, and a rapid recovery. It is a high-safety option for patients who may be at risk for traditional surgery and, importantly, it significantly reduces the risk of erectile dysfunction compared to other surgical methods.
Who is a Good Candidate?
- Patients with a prostate size between 30–80 grams.
- Those who do not respond well to medication or experience unpleasant side effects from it.
- Individuals with health conditions that make general anesthesia or major surgery risky.
- Patients who do not have a penile prosthesis.
The Treatment Procedure
- Anesthesia: Performed under local anesthesia or light sedation.
- Insertion: A specialized device is inserted through the urethra.
- Steam Injection: Steam at 103°C is injected into the prostate 4–6 times, depending on the size.
- Time: Total procedure time is roughly 10–15 minutes.
- Recovery: After 2 hours in recovery, patients stay in the hospital for 1 night.
- Catheterization: A urinary catheter is kept in place for 3–5 days to assist healing and ensure comfort.
- Healing: Initial swelling may cause temporary discomfort or minor blood in the urine. Symptoms typically improve within 2 weeks, with full recovery by 6 weeks.
Post-Treatment Care
- Take all medications as prescribed by your doctor.
- Pain relievers can be used if discomfort occurs.
- Follow specific instructions for urinary catheter care.
- Attend all follow-up appointments.
Estimated Cost
The package price ranges from 180,000 THB to 210,000 THB.
For More Information
- Urology Clinic: 1st Floor, Building 1. Tel. 043-002-002 ext. 1920
- Health Information Center: Ext. 1905
