Thoracoscopic T_2 sympathectomy from one skin incision for palmar hyperhidrosis

[Objective] The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency and safety of the surgical technique of using thoracoscopic sympathectomy to destroy the second thoracic (T2) sympathetic ganglia from one skin incision for palmar hyperhidrosis. [Methods] From May 2004 to September 2004, 17 thoracoscopic sympathectomies were performed. The procedures were performed with the patients under general anesthesia using a double-lumen endotracheal tube. In palmar hyperhidrosis the T2 sympathetic ganglia were destroyed by electrocautery from one skin incision. [Results] The symptoms disappeared completely in all patients immediately after operation. There was no surgical mortality. The average operation time for a bilateral procedure was 39 min. The mean follow-up time was 2.1 months. None of patients has recurred palmar hyperhidrosis. [Conclusions] Thoracoscopic T2 sympathectomy from one skin incision is an effective and safe minimally invasive treatment for palmar hyperhidrosis.