KNH Makes History with Kenya’s First Public Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy for Prostate Enlargement

 Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has achieved a historic milestone by performing its first-ever Rezūm Water Vapor Therapy procedure for prostate enlargement, marking a significant advancement in public healthcare in Kenya.

The groundbreaking procedure, performed on a 55-year-old patient, makes KNH the first public health facility in Kenya to offer this innovative, minimally invasive treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) – a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that affects urinary function in many men.

“This is a proud moment for our hospital family,” said Dr. D. K. Kimani, Senior Urologist at KNH and Honorary Lecturer at the University of Nairobi, who led the procedure. “Introducing Rezūm therapy at KNH demonstrates our commitment to providing advanced care to all Kenyans, not just those who can afford private facilities.”

What is Rezūm Therapy?

Rezūm therapy is a steam-based procedure that reduces excess prostate tissue. A specialized device delivers controlled bursts of sterile water vapor directly into the prostate tissue, which the body gradually absorbs. The procedure alleviates obstruction and significantly improves urine flow.

The treatment is particularly suited for men with moderate to severe symptoms, those wishing to avoid long-term medication, and those seeking to preserve sexual function.

Key advantages of Rezūm therapy include:

• Minimally invasive procedure with rapid recovery

• Very low risk of retrograde ejaculation compared to traditional surgery (TURP)

• No permanent implants

• Avoidance of general anesthesia

Procedure Highlights

The therapy was completed in approximately 20 minutes under sedation, with targeted bursts of steam each lasting about nine seconds. As a day-care procedure, the patient is expected to return home the same day, emphasizing minimal disruption to daily life.

Patients typically notice symptom improvement within 2-6 weeks, with maximum benefit seen at 2-3 months. Clinical studies indicate that results are durable for five years or more in most patients.

Multidisciplinary Team Behind the Milestone

The successful procedure was made possible by a dedicated team of specialists, including:

• Dr. A. K. Gatheru – Anesthesiologist

• Ramadhan Muyika – Anesthetist

• Dr. Oyugi Omondi, Dr. Eyole Njako, Dr. Eric Mburu – Senior Urology Registrars

• Mr. Samuel Mulati, Mr. Samuel Orina – Senior Nurses

• Wesley Lagat – Theatre Support Assistant

“This was truly a team effort,” Dr. Kimani said. “Every member of the team played a crucial role in ensuring the procedure’s success and the patient’s safety.”

Expanding Access to Innovative Urological Care

While Rezūm therapy has been established in Europe and the United States, and is available in some private clinics in Kenya, its introduction at KNH represents a major step in making advanced treatment accessible through the public healthcare system.

KNH’s urology department has pledged to continue embracing cutting-edge innovations that improve patient outcomes, enhance quality of life, and reduce healthcare disparities.

“We are not just treating patients; we are pioneering hope and transforming lives,” Dr. Kimani said. “Our goal is to ensure that all Kenyans, regardless of their means, can benefit from the latest medical advances.”

As Kenya’s largest referral hospital, KNH is now poised to lead the country in innovative, patient-centered urological care, setting a benchmark for other public hospitals in the region.

If you want, I can also rewrite this in a shorter, punchy version for social media or mainstream news outlets, highlighting the “first public Rezūm in Kenya” angle for maximum impact.

Do you want me to do that?