[Thoracic sympathectomy: treatment for hyperhidrosis]

Abstract

Hyperhidrosis is a benign functional anomaly which is highly stressful for the patient. Active management is required. Several medical options are available but are often ineffective. The thoracic sympathic system plays a fundamental role in propagating stimulation of sudoral gland secretion. Endoscopic thoracic sympatecomy thus provides a radical treatment for severe palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis. We describe the technique used in our unit and present results and possible complications. This method has been used by many teams for several Years and despite some differences, most confirm major patient benefit. Phenomena of transferred sudation are frequent by are usually not invalidating. Patients should however be informed of this possibility because the effect is often irreversible.