Endoscopic transthoracic sympathectomy in the treatment of primary hyperhidrosis: a review of 1000 patients

A consecutive series of 1000 patients who underwent Endoscopic Transthoracic Sympatectomy (ETS) for the treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis is reported. Two thousand sympatectomies were performed with a 98% success rate. Complications of the procedure included pneumothorax (1.5%), hemothorax (0.3%), and temporary Homer's syndrome (0.15%). 50% of patients developed compensatory sweating, and 8% rebound sweating. Palmar hyperhidrosis recurred in 1%. ETS is an effective form of treatment for palmar hyperhidrosis. It is associated with a low morbidity and excellent cosmetic results.