Endoscopic Thoracic Sympathetic Ganglion Cauterization for Primary Hyperhidrosis

Kim, Young Sook; Kim, Ki Yeob; Kim, Inn Se

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis causes important consequences to the social and professional life of the affected patient. Endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy is considered the treatment of choice, because it causes minimal morbidity and high initial success rates. Therefore we used a single-site access technique for primary hyperhidrosis patients. METHOD: The operation was done under general anesthesia with the patient in a half-sitting position. Through an incision made along the line between lateral 1/3 portion of the clavicle and ipsilateral nipple, a Verres needle was introduced below the second rib. About 1.5L of CO2 was insufflated into the pleural cavity. The needle was changed to a 5 mm trochar through which the electroresectoscope was introduced. The heads of the upper 2nd-4th ribs were identified and the sympathetic chain could be seen through the pleura riding over the ribs close to the costovertebral junction. The 2nd-4th ganglia were coagulated and divided down to the periosteum. Finally the lung was expanded by limiting flow until the airway pressure reach 30~40 cmH2O. The wound was closed after the removal of electroresectoscope. The procedure was then repeated on the opposite side. RESULT: There were no postoperative mortality and major complications requring surgical reintervention. The preoperatively wet and cold hands had became warm and dry immediately after operation. All patients were very satisfied.
CONCLUSION
Endoscopic thoracic sympathetic ganglion cauterization is a minimally invasive and highly successful treatment for the patients with primary hyperhidrosis.