The Urology team at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital is transforming the lives of men across the North West of England with a groundbreaking new treatment for a condition which affects more than a third of men aged over 50.
REZUM therapy is a minimally invasive surgical treatment for patients diagnosed with Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH), a condition in which the prostate gland becomes enlarged, causing uncomfortable symptoms such as frequent and painful urination, particularly at night.
The risk of BPH increases with age. As the prostate enlarges, it can cause pressure, leading to weak urine flow, frequent and urgent urination, or even complete blockage.
The standard BPH treatment, Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP), is effective but can cause side effects like loss of sexual function, bleeding and incontinence. The procedure takes about 60 minutes, with an average recovery time of two days in hospital.
REZUM can be carried out in around 10 minutes, with patients going home on the same day. Patients experience minimal side effects and maintain erectile function after treatment.
The therapy uses a device to target steam at the prostate tissue, causing it to shrink. Over time, the body absorbs the treated tissue, reliving pressure and improving symptoms.
Howard Trust, 69, from Anfield, Liverpool, was among the first to benefit from the groundbreaking therapy, which he received in October 2024.
An avid cyclist and golfer, Howard had been struggling with symptoms that interfered with his daily life. Now, completely symptom-free, he is able to return to his active lifestyle.
Howard said: “I couldn’t believe how simple the procedure was. I felt fully supported throughout the process, and the best part is, the pain is gone, and my symptoms have completely disappeared. I’m back to playing golf and enjoying full nights of sleep again. If you have the opportunity to undergo this treatment, I highly recommend it.”
Mr Howard Trust, Research Participant
Mr Matthew Liew, Consultant Urological Surgeon and Deputy Clinical Director for Innovation at NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group (UHL Group), said: "We’re excited to offer REZUM as a new, less invasive option for men suffering from BPH. This innovative therapy provides an opportunity to offer more personalised care, helping men regain control over their health and quality of life.
“REZUM has been approved by NICE (the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) and this trial follows an extensive evaluation of randomised research studies, providing excellent data supporting its effectiveness.”
Mr Matthew Liew, Urological Surgeon & Deputy Clinical Director for Innovation at UHLG
Mr Liew and Mr Srinivasa Viswanath, Consultant Urological Surgeon at UHL Group, underwent specialised training to perform the REZUM therapy and have so far successfully carried out the procedure on over 25 patients.
The clinical team has been supported by the Innovation team at UHL Group, led by Dr Andrew Rose, Assistant Director of Innovation, and a partnership with NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, NHS England and Health Innovation North West Coast.
Dr Rose said: “We are incredibly thankful for the support that these organisations have provided, helping us bring this innovative treatment to our patients. Our Innovation team at UHL Group is committed to advancing cutting-edge treatments like REZUM to improve outcomes for patients.”
The REZUM therapy is still in development at UHL Group and is continuing to show positive results for patients who suffer with BPH.
Patients experiencing persistent urinary symptoms that are not effectively managed through medication or lifestyle changes may be eligible for REZUM therapy. Those interested in the treatment are encouraged to speak with their GP or consultant for further information.
For more information on Innovation at UHL Group, visit our UHL Group Innovation page.