The Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has successfully performed its first-ever Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy procedure for prostate enlargement.
This minimally invasive treatment was performed on a 55-year-old patient, making KNH the first public health facility in Kenya to offer this advanced care.
“It represents a leap forward in making innovative treatments accessible to all,” read a statement from the hospital.
Rezūm Therapy is a groundbreaking treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) – a non-cancerous prostate enlargement that affects many men’s urinary health.
“The procedure uses sterile water vapor (steam) to gently reduce excess prostate tissue, which the body then naturally absorbs. This results in relief from obstruction and significantly improves urine flow,” read the statement in part.
It highlighted that the treatment was completed in approximately 20 minutes under sedation. A small device delivered targeted bursts of steam, each lasting about nine seconds. As a day-care procedure, our patient is expected to go home the same day, emphasizing minimal disruption to his life.
Rezūm is ideal for men with moderate to severe symptoms, especially those wishing to avoid long-term medication or preserve sexual function.
Key advantages of the procedure include minimally invasive with rapid recovery, very low risk of retrograde ejaculation compared to traditional surgery (TURP), no permanent implants and avoidance of general anesthesia
Patients typically see symptom improvement within 2-6 weeks, with maximum benefit at 2-3 months, and clinical evidence shows durable results lasting five years or more for most.
“This achievement was made possible by a dedicated multidisciplinary team, led by Dr D. K. Kimani, Senior Urologist at KNH and Honorary Lecturer at the University of Nairobi,” read the statement.
Other team members include Dr A. K. Gatheru (anaesthesiologist), Ramadhan Muyika (anaesthetist), Dr Oyugi Omondi, Dr Eyole Njako, and Dr Eric Mburu (senior registrars, urology), Mr Samuel Mulati and Mr Samuel Orina (senior nurses), and Wesley Lagat (theatre support assistant).
While Rezūm therapy is well-established in Europe and the US and available in Kenyan private centres, its introduction at KNH is a significant step forward.
“We are committed to expanding equitable access to cutting-edge urological care within Kenya’s public health system. Our urology team continues to embrace innovations that enhance patient outcomes and quality of life,” read the statement.
By Joseph Ng’ang’a
