Kenyatta National Hospital has marked a historic milestone following the successful performance of its first-ever Rezūm Water Vapour Therapy procedure for prostate enlargement.
The 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,” the hospital said.
What is Rezūm therapy?
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 vapour (steam) to gently reduce excess prostate tissue, which the body then naturally absorbs. The result? Relief from obstruction and significantly improved urine flow.
According to KNH, 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, emphasising minimal disruption to his life,” the hospital said.
Rezūm therapy is ideal for which patient?
Rezūm is ideal for men with moderate to severe symptoms, especially those wishing to avoid long-term medication or preserve sexual function.
Its key advantages include:
- Minimally invasive with rapid recovery
- Very low risk of retrograde ejaculation compared to traditional surgery (TURP)
- No permanent implants
- 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.
A multidisciplinary team that took part in the historic procedure was led by Dr D. K. Kimani, a senior urologist at KNH and honorary lecturer at the University of Nairobi.
Others were:
- Dr A. K. Gatheru (Anesthesiologist)
- Ramadhan Muyika (Anaesthetist)
- Dr Oyugi Omondi, Dr Eyole Njako, and Dr Eric Mburu (Senior Registrars, Urology)
- Samuel Mulati and Samuel Orina (Senior Nurses)
- 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,” KNH said in a statement on Saturday, January 17, 2026.
