I knew something was wrong with the waterworks, and naturally feared the worst. Initial tests suggested that it was BPH rather than anything more serious. However until, under the care of Richard Hindley, this was confirmed by an MRI scan, it was a tense period. Mr Hindley had talked about Rezum, but because it was still early days he had, quite properly, not pushed this treatment too hard and in fact, when the diagnosis was clear, initially suggested green light laser. On reflection this may have been because I had a significantly enlarged prostate.
I was intrigued by Rezum and had taken the time to research as well as I was able. It was clearly a new treatment, but the results appeared to be excellent. I am by nature, willing to take informed risks and this seemed to be a good one but I wanted to talk through all the options. The honesty and openness of Mr Hindley and Anita Purver (Urology Specialist Nurse) was most refreshing. I felt very safe in their hands and decided to go with Rezum.
The operation went smoothly and effectively painlessly. I learned that 13 steam jets had been administered. That was quite a lot! I have to say that the period with the catheter was not fun, and in fact I was sufficiently troubled on Christmas day (don’t have the operation just before Christmas!) that I called Anita for help. She was utterly amazing and met me that afternoon to flush out the system and restore a level of comfort. Talk about going above and beyond!
But once the dreaded catheter was out, an experience I can only describe as pure bliss, the healing process commenced and the body started to flush out the treated tissue. For me it took longer than expected, around six months before the system was completely clear and stable. But the positive side is that for almost all of that time my waterworks appear to have reverted to something more akin to that of an 18 year old. Today at 70, I can honestly say my flow rate has never been better. Control is excellent (four or five hours during the day is not unusual) and getting up in the night is now entirely voluntary (only necessary if I consume a lot of liquid before bed), and I have encountered no negative side effects.
Many thanks to an impressive team who clearly know their stuff, operate with honesty, listened to my random thoughts and questions and fully included me in the decision process, and most importantly did an excellent job. It’s been a privilege to be treated by you.