Thoracic Sympathectomy for Essential Hyperhidrosis

Kim, Young Soo; Yoon, Do Heum

Abstract

Essential hyperhidrosis is a condition with excessive secretion of sweat, which may be localized in any part of the body. Most common is palmar or plantar hyperhidrosis. Severe hyperhidrosis may cause serious psychological and occupational problems. Of the Numerous treatment recommended for this condition, only surgical removal of the sympathetic nerve supply seems permanently effective. Fifty-three patients were operated on for hyperhidrosis of the upper extrimity during the period from 1989 to 1992. Resection of the upper thoracic ganglia and the connecting sympathetic chain was carried out using a posterior approach. All hands of patients were dry immediately after the operation. During a follow up period of between three months to three years, there was no recurrence of palmar sweating. Fifteen of the patients showed compensatory hyperhidrosis in trunk, mild Hornor syndrome was noted in two cases. Most of the patients were satisfied with the surgical result.