Water therapy for urinary symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia

This study looked at using water jet therapy to treat lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It concluded that water jet therapy can improve LUTS and quality of life (QOL) caused by BPH. 

BPH is an enlargement of the prostate gland. An enlarged prostate can cause urinary symptoms. It can have a negative impact on QOL. Treatments for BPH may include medication or surgery. Medications may not help BPH symptoms. Some men may then decide they want a procedure. 

Surgery is generally performed by removing excess prostate tissue. This surgery can lead to other complications. It can also be invasive. There are other less invasive procedures. Water jet therapy is another option. It works by using a jet of heated water to remove the excess tissue. It still requires more research.

188 men were included in the study. These men had moderate to severe BPH. Patients were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups. Group 1 had the Rezum water jet device. Group 2 had a camera inserted into the bladder. Patients were assessed at 3 months after surgery. They were then assessed every year after. Patients were assessed for urinary symptoms, QOL, incontinence, sexual function and side effects. 

Urinary symptoms improved in 50% of water jet patients and 20% of sham surgery patients. 52.2% of water jet patients had improved urinary symptoms at 1 year. 50.7% of water jet patients had improved urinary symptoms at 2 years. 49.7% of water jet patients had improved urinary symptoms at 3 years. 46.7% of water jet patients had improved urinary symptoms at 4 years. QOL and urinary incontinence also improved. Sexual function did not change. Some side effects did occur. These included painful or difficult urination, blood in urine, increased urination and urgent urination, holding onto urine, urinary tract infection, a tightened bladder opening and bladder stones. 

This study concluded that water jet therapy was safe and effective in treating LUTS caused by BPH. 

The authors note that symptom improvement with water jet therapy is similar to effects of taking two medications in combination. 

If you would like to learn more about water jet therapy for LUTS caused by BPH, talk to your doctor.