Chatham-Kent residents with enlarged prostates now have a cutting-edge treatment closer to home, but at an out-of-pocket cost for some.
Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) and Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation (CKHAF) announced on Monday it is offering the Rezum urology procedure at CKHA --the first time that the advanced medical procedure will be offered closer to home.
The equipment was funded by an anonymous donor who was inspired after "exemplary experiences with CKHA’s Urology program, including the program’s physicians and support staff."
The Rezum procedure is a minimally invasive treatment that improves the quality of life for men suffering from an enlarged prostate. It uses steam to shrink excess prostate tissue and relieves symptoms such as difficulty urinating.
“Thanks to the generosity of our donor, this innovative technology will offer a safe and effective alternative to traditional surgical options,” said CKHAF President & CEO Christine Mitchell. “The Rezum procedure has fewer side effects and a quicker recovery time than traditional surgery.”
Most medical journals noted recovery from the procedure usually takes a few days and that it's normal to see a small amount of blood in the urine after this procedure for 4-6 weeks. They also said burning can come and go when urinating.
CKHA said the procedure is extremely quick compared to traditional methods with an appointment taking approximately an hour and a patient can be discharged from the hospital the same day.
Dr. Christopher Langley, a Urology Specialist at CKHA, said he is pleased to be a part of bringing this procedure to Chatham-Kent.
“Rezum is a minimally invasive treatment for BPH that offers several advantages over conventional surgery,” Dr. Langley said. “This affords patients more variety and has several advantages pertaining to sexual function and urinary symptom improvement.”
Approximately 50 per cent of men are affected by an enlarged prostate by age 60 and up to 90 per cent of men are affected by age 85, CKHA noted.
CKHA said the introduction of the Rezum procedure will have a substantial impact on improving the lives of many men in the community.
CKHA urges individuals who are interested in this procedure to speak with their healthcare provider for more information.
Rezum is not covered by OHIP, but some private health insurance provides coverage.